According to the Columbus Chamber of Commerce, central Ohio saw an increase in 4,000 jobs in the first half of the year, bringing its employment level to nearly 950,800 workers.
The chamber released its updated economic forecast, which predicted a 0.6% increase in jobs for 2008 in comparison to the average monthly totals for 2007.
Economic analysts warn, however, that the area could lose nearly 2,800 jobs in the next six months. The forecast also claims that the jobless rate for the included counties was at 5.5% at the end of the second quarter, up from the first quarter rate of 4.9%.
Employment in central Ohio dropped the most in construction, mining, and manufacturing sectors. Sectors that saw the most increases in jobs include transportation/utilities, wholesale trade, and professional business sectors.