Kankakee County among leading metros statewide in jobs created, reports Illinois Department of Employment Security

Report shows year-over-year growth of 600 jobs, unemployment lowest since 2007
 
KANKAKEE, IL – October 28, 2014 – Kankakee County saw strong jobs growth and a sharp decline in unemployment over the past year, according to numbers released October 23 by the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
 
According to the report, the Kankakee-Bradley metropolitan statistical area experienced a 3% drop in unemployment – 10.7% to 7.7% – from September 2013 to September 2014. Over that same time period, the Kankakee-Bradley MSA added 600 jobs, which represents the third greatest increase statewide.
 
“We are very encouraged – but not surprised – by these numbers,” notes Alliance President/CEO Mike Van Mill. “Daily, we speak with and assist local companies that are investing and expanding in Kankakee County. Our industrial base understands well our area’s advantages – proximity to market, cost competitiveness, a ready workforce and rich business services.
 
“All indications are that these growth trends will continue – and likely accelerate – in Kankakee County.”
 
Unemployment fell in all Illinois metros for the sixth consecutive month, with Kankakee-Bradley unemployment at its lowest level since 2007.
 
The Economic Alliance of Kankakee County is a public-private partnership that works to create jobs and expand the economic base by improving the local business climate. For more information, visit kankakeecountyed.org or phone 815.935.1177.