The new year could mean a fresh start when it comes to North Carolina's economy. An expert says things are looking pretty good thanks to a strong November.
The economic pinch has been harder here than in most states. Job creation in North Carolina has lagged behind the rest of nation.
There's new signs North Carolina's painfully slow economic recovery may finally be heating up. NC state Economics Professor Mike Walden made a bold prediction.
"I'm predicting we'll see 40,000 to 50,000 jobs created in North Carolina in 2012," said Walden. "Compared to the 20,000 created in 2011."
It's a forecast for an economic turnaround. Walden's latest index of economic indicators is encouraging. Jobless claims are down across the state. North Carolinians are working slightly more hours and earning slightly more money. It adds up to 1.9% jump, which marks two straight months of growth. The state's economy is still down for the year, but Walden thinks the turnaround will stick.
The state's unemployment rate stands at 10%, which is above the national average. Walden predicts it will drop below 9% this year.
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