In an encouraging sign for construction, the industry’s jobless rate dipped in September, to 13.3%, from the August level of 13.5%, the Labor Dept.'s Bureau of Labor Statistics reported. Last month's mark also was much improved from the 17.2% rate in September 2010.
Moreover, construction gained 26,000 jobs last month, seasonally adjusted, according to the latest monthly BLS unemployment report, released on Oct. 7.