Is Hampton Roads primed for a boost in construction jobs? Experts say yes. [Video]

NORFOLK, Va. — The Association of General Contractors of America says demand and new construction hiring in Hampton Roads is booming. Chief Economist Ken Simonson said the rate of growth for construction positions puts Hampton Roads among the top 10 areas in the country.    

“The Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Newport News metro area added 4,500 construction jobs between September 2023 and last month. Putting it among the top metros nationwide for job increase in the sector,” Simonson said at a press conference on Tuesday.

With national labor shortages in construction, Hampton Roads companies are ramping up their recruiting efforts. Ron Lauster, the president of local construction company WM Jordan, said changing those numbers starts locally. His team is overseeing the expansion of the Half Moon Cruise Terminal in Norfolk.  

“This exciting $9.3 million project for the City of Norfolk will allow the city to …