Could low unemployment numbers scare prospects away? Gene Marrano August 24, 2018 1 minute 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: Share: Post navigation 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 Fork in the Market changes hands as longtime manager becomes owner Ian Price June 2, 2026 Roanoke Residential Fire and Explosion Determined to be Intentionally Set Web Staff June 1, 2026 Roanoke City councilman shares thoughts on current zoning code as discussions continue Web Staff June 1, 2026