NYC adds small number of construction jobs

U.S. metro areas post uneven gains, suggesting an “uneven and fragile recovery” in the sector

Construction employment rose a slight 2 percent in New York City in March, compared to the same period a year ago, according to a release from the Associated General Contractors of America. The increase translates to a total of 113,700 jobs recorded in the month-long period, versus 111,200 tallied in March 2012.

Across the U.S., employment in the sector increased year-over-year in 152 of 339 metropolitan areas, the trade group said. Construction spending increased nearly 5 percent — or $38.9 billion — in the same time span, according to association officials.

The starkest growth was in Pascagoula, Miss., which added 47 percent, or 1,700, more construction jobs in March 2013 compared to March 2012.

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The greater Chicago area and Northern Virginia saw the greatest overall job drops — both areas lost 2,700 jobs, representing a 3 percent and 4 percent decline, respectively.

“Today’s figures on employment by metro area and construction spending nationally in March highlight the uneven and fragile recovery that construction is experiencing,” said Ken Simon, the association’s chief economist, in the release. “The totals are up on a year-over-year basis, and should continue to improve during the remainder of 2013, but not every sector of the region will do well.”

All told, employment figures declined in 126 metropolitan areas and remained stagnant in 61. —Zachary Kussin