Pat DiGiovanni, president and CEO of Centro San Antonio, says that USAA’s move to bring 150 jobs is evidence that the urban core is becoming more attractive to companies of all sizes.

“We believe this is an indication by USAA that its future workforce wants to be in a more urban, walkable environment, close to residential options, shorter commutes and other amenities that are appealing to that workforce,” DiGiovanni said in a statement. “With a strong focus on arts, education and culture, particularly seen in projects like the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine and Hemisfair, downtown is becoming more attractive to large and small businesses and this will inevitably spur additional economic growth.”

The insurance and financial services company announced Friday that it will be moving roughly 150 jobs to One Riverwalk Place, an 18-story office building along the River Walk, in late September.

While 150 new employees to downtown might seem infinitesimal, District 1 Councilman Diego Bernal said USAA’s stature as one of the top privately-held companies in town makes the move a big deal.

“It’s fantastic to have one of our finest corporations enhance their presence in downtown,” Bernal said. “Changing downtown doesn’t happen over night. It happens piece by piece. And this is an important piece.”

USAA officials declined to say whether the company would eventually fill the entire 18-story building.

“It’s unclear right now,” said Shon Manasco, USAA’s chief administrative officer. “Many of those tenants have long-term lease. As we continue to grow in San Antonio, we are going to continue to look at all areas of the city … This is our home. This has always been our home.”

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USAA moving 150 jobs downtown

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