HARRISBURG (PRNewswire) – Gov. Edward G. Rendell Monday said Pennsylvania’s job count rose in July to a new record high of 5,757,900 jobs, bringing to 132,600 the net gain in new jobs since January 2003.
Job growth in Pennsylvania last month was on par with national job growth, while the state’s 4.8 percent July unemployment rate tied the national rate. The commonwealth’s unemployment rate is nearly a full percentage point below the January 2003 rate of 5.7 percent.
“Pennsylvania’s economy continues to grow, adding jobs each month,” Rendell said. “That is great news, because it means business decision makers recognize Pennsylvania is one of the best places to expand, invest or set up shop. At the same time, they are creating new opportunities for our skilled and hardworking citizens across the state.
“We have come a long way in creating a more competitive business climate,” the governor said. “My priority continues to be investing in our businesses, communities and people to ensure long-term growth.
“Steady growth in construction jobs is a good indicator of future economic expansion, and right now there are 10,300 more construction jobs than when I took office,” Governor Rendell said. “As the demand for construction workers grows, we need to invest in innovative ways to meet the need. Last week I announced a $200,000 workforce development grant for the Helmets to Hardhats program, which helps Pennsylvanians transition from the military to civilian workforce with opportunities for good-paying jobs in the construction industry.
“Across the state, each week our economic investments are increasing the demand for construction workers on projects such as Pennsylvania’s first ethanol production plant that will be built in Clearfield County. This is one example of how leveraging state funds attracts private-sector investments that create jobs and improve our economy,” the governor said.
“With this project we are creating jobs and taking another gigantic step forward on the renewable energy front to lessen our dependence on foreign energy sources and make Pennsylvania a better place for future generations.”