July 29, 2008

Year-over-year employment levels decline in U.S. heavy construction sector

Washington, D.C.

The total number of highway and bridge construction workers in the United States fell by 2.4 per cent in May 2008 compared with the same month the year before, reports the American Road & Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA).

ARTBA’s analysis indicates 357,400 workers were employed in highway and bridge work in May 2008 — 5,300 fewer than the year before.

ARTBA’s “Transportation Construction Industry Employment Report” also noted declines in all categories of transportation construction beyond highway and bridge projects.

The total number of workers in the stone mining and quarrying category declined 4.7 per cent, construction sand and gravel worker levels dropped about one per cent, and ready-mixed concrete employment totals declined four per cent.

According to ARTBA, the construction machinery category experienced positive job growth, with total worker numbers climbing seven per cent over the May 2007 level.

ARTBA economist and vice-president of policy Alison Premo Black said transportation construction industry employment continues to reflect larger market trends, “especially the impact of higher material prices.”

DCN News Services

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