Construction employment expanded in 220 metro areas, declined in 70 and was stagnant in 49 between April 2013 and April 2014, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America.
“Construction employment appears to be rebounding in many parts of the country,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. “Declines in federal spending likely depressed construction employment near Washington, while of the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy may be having an impact on construction employment in metro areas in New Jersey.”
Association officials noted signs that the federal government is again ready to invest in aging infrastructure should provide more stability for a construction industry that has yet to fully recover from its years-long downturn.