An American Institute of Architects (AIA) report released this week estimates that the mandatory federal spending cuts looming at the start of next year could cost the design and construction industry 66,500 full-time positions.
The AIA's report [PDF] on the potential for $2 billion in lost work if massive mandatory federal spending cuts go into effect on January 2 will be unwelcome news for the struggling design and construction industry, among the hardest hit by the recession.
"At a time when both political parties are campaigning on
being the best at creating jobs, both are risking the jobs of millions
of Americans by placing ideology above governing," said AIA President
Jeff Potter, FAIA.
According to an AIA press release accompanying the report, "as many as 66,500 full-time
positions could be lost in a sector that accounts for roughly 11 percent
of the nation's economy."
"The design and construction industry is a significant portion of the
national economy, and we urge both sides to put aside their political
differences and come up with a budget that keeps people working,
especially if they are working on a national infrastructure befitting of
the 21st century," Potter said.
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