The Illinois economy added more than 6,000 jobs in February, mostly in the Illinois construction industry, according to a new jobs report. The news is a boost to Gov. Pat Quinn. (Photo Credit: AP)
(Chicago, IL) – March 23, 2012. Governor Pat Quinn got some good news yesterday.
The Illinois unemployment rate fell for the sixth consecutive month in February, dropping -0.3 to 9.1 percent, according to preliminary data released on Thursday by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
“February’s jobs number is another positive sign in Illinois’ economic recovery. Illinois continues its steady economic growth fueled by monthly increases in job creation and falling unemployment rates,” agency Director Jay Rowell said.
“Our recovery is built upon consistent progress that can be seen month to month.”
Illinois employers added +6,500 jobs during the month, mostly construction jobs according to Department spokesman Greg Rivera.
Listen to Rivera’s comments:
Illinois has added +130,700 private sector jobs since January 2010 when job growth returned to Illinois.
Leading growth sectors are:
- Professional and Business Services (+67,800)
- Educational and Health Services (+31,300)
- Manufacturing (+28,600)
- Trade, Transportation and Utilities (+12,800)
After being battered by relentless bad news on the Illinois budget, the job gains and drop in the unemployment rate delivers a piece of good news for Quinn.
The shedding of government jobs remains, however, a drag on the Illinois economy.
Government employment has lost the most jobs since January 2010, down -25,900.
Gov. Pat Quinn
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