The Eau Claire area has made headlines once again, ranking second in the nation for construction, mining, and logging job growth according to the Associated General Contractors of America.  A 31 percent increase of approximately 1000 jobs over the last year from 3,200 to 4,200, places Eau Claire just behind Pascagoula, Miss. at 33 percent and far above third place Fargo N. D. at 20 percent. 

Construction projects like the new Holiday Inn, located near the intersection of Highway 53 and Interstate 94, and the UW- Eau Claire campus construction are large factors in the increase says Eau Claire Area Economic Development Corp. director Brian Doudna.  Future construction for SHE in Chippewa Falls and the JAMF building in downtown Eau Claire will help sustain the construction boom.  New sand mining operations in the area have also played a significant role in the increase.  Commercial construction is not the only sector on the rise, though.  Residential construction in the area has contributed to the jobs increase statistic as well. 

While the national recognition is nice, the implications of the Eau Claire area’s ranking are truly exciting.  Increased construction is an indicator of economic growth, business expansion, and a recovery of the housing area housing market.

To read the Leader-Telegram article click here; WEAU’s article click here; and WQOW’s article click here.