2,400 construction jobs were added across Southwest Florida in June, a 9.4 percent growth rate compared to last year. The Sarasota-Manatee and Charlotte County metro areas were among 264 out of 358 nationwide where construction employment rose over the year, according to the Associated General Contractors of America. Construction employment payrolls increased by 1,900 jobs, or 9 percent, in Sarasota-Manatee in June, while Charlotte County added 500 jobs for a boost of 13 percent. Charlotte ranked 22nd nationwide for percentage growth, while Sarasota-Manatee tied for 60th.
