Construction unemployment rate jumps to 18.8 percent

The construction unemployment rate jumped to 18.8 percent in November as the sector lost another 5,000 jobs since October, according to an analysis of new federal employment data released today [Dec. 3] by the Associated General Contractors of America. The data indicates that the construction sector has suffered more than any other industry during the economic downturn, association officials said.

"The unemployment report shows construction still has not broken free of the recession that has gripped the industry since 2006," said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. "Other than the stimulus and other temporary federal programs, it has been a pretty bleak four yours for the industry," according to a Dec. 3 AGC of America report.