Could low unemployment numbers scare prospects away? Gene Marrano August 24, 2018 1 min read Could the lowest unemployment rate since August 2007 – 3 point 1 percent – and a record labor force expansion scare prospects away from the state and the region? WFIR’s Gene Marrano spoke with a local economic development specialist: About the Author Gene Marrano Editor View All Posts Share: Continue Reading Previous: Two more local teams gear up for high school football seasonNext: Poll: Virginians who support Trump say it’s for deeds, not words Related Stories 1 min read Cigar Lounge preparing to open in Downtown Roanoke Clark Palmer September 5, 2025 2 min read Salem VA Health Care System receives top scores in latest CMS hospital ratings Clark Palmer September 5, 2025 1 min read Local woman advocates for other childhood cancer survivors experiencing late effects of cancer treatment Denise Membreno September 5, 2025