
Fort Worth-Arlington, Texa,s and Las Cruces, N.M., experience the largest declines for the year. Phoenix-Mesa-Scottsdale, Ariz., and Weirton-Steubenville, W.V.-Ohio, topped the growth list .
Construction employment declined in 144 out of 358 metro areas between September 2014 and September 2015, while construction was stagnant in 55 and increased in 159 metro areas, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said many contractors are having a hard time finding qualified workers to fill available positions, which may account for the underwhelming employment figures.