Several large public projects will continue to move forward in 2010, but with the economy still troubled and financial markets unyielding, private jobs are few.

Construction’s unemployment rate soared to 25% in January, up from 18% the previous year, 11% in 2008 and 9% in 2007.

While the federal stimulus program has helped many construction industry firms avoid the most immediate, far-reaching and detrimental impacts of the recession, it hardly has been a panacea for all or a substitute for tough strategic decisions.

Transportation agencies have been near the front of the pack in getting ARRA funds out the door. In highways, state DOTs have $16.8 billion in ARRA projects under construction.