Springs unemployment jumps to 8.8 percent

Colorado Springs unemployment rates rose to 8.8 percent, higher than the state average and the local level in more than a year.

Job growth statewide was down from a year ago, as well – only 1,900 jobs were created in July, significantly lower than the 25,200 jobs created during the same period in 2009.

July jobless numbers are up from 8.7 percent in June, according to figures from the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment.

Local payrolls declined by 1.4 percent from a year earlier. The biggest decline occurred in education, as local school districts cut jobs because of less funding from the state.

Health care, manufacturing and service industries also cut jobs. Tourism, retail and construction added jobs.

Statewide, the unemployment rate remained unchanged for the fourth consecutive month.

Despite dour news in El Paso County, there’s encouraging news in other parts of the state, said Donald J. Mares, executive director of the labor department.

“Four months of stability in the unemployment rate combined with two months of notable private sector job growth is encouraging news,” he said.

To view the entire labor department report, click here.

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