Steel Markets
May 26, 2020
AGC: Construction Jobs Decline in April as Projects Delayed or Canceled
Written by Sandy Williams
Construction jobs reached multi-year lows in many states in April, according to the latest analysis of government data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Construction employment declined in every state except South Dakota, for a loss of 975,000 jobs last month. Employment in the sector was down 13 percent from March to April with New York plummeting 40.8 percent and Vermont 46.3 percent. South Dakota saw an increase of 2 percent or 500 jobs.
“Today’s state employment report shows how widespread—and deep—the job losses have been among construction workers, despite a smattering of new or accelerated projects,” said AGC Chief Economist Ken Simonson. “Meanwhile, our latest survey indicates that the paycheck loan program has enabled some companies to retain or add workers for now, but that relief will expire soon if not extended.”
