294 out of 337 metro areas lose construction jobs from May 2009 to 2010

Construction employment continued to suffer significant declines in the majority of metropolitan areas according to an analysis of federal employment data released by the Associated General Contractors of America. The figures reflect continued weak private, state and local demand as well as a lack of long–term projects caused by stalled federal infrastructure bills, association officials noted.

“With current demand soft and chances of a turnaround months away, construction firms are unwilling to expand payrolls,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Contractors know there’s nothing to take up the slack once the stimulus runs its course,” according to a June 30 AGC of America release.

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