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http://www.insideindianabusiness.com/newsitem.asp?ID=51093

Forecast Calls For More Slow Growth

Andy Ober, InsideINdianaBusiness.com

Hicks says Indiana's economic success depends heavily on the actions of the federal government.

A Ball State University economist says he expects sluggish economic growth in Indiana in 2012. Michael Hicks says high gas prices and unemployment will push a return to pre-recession economic levels to 2014 at the earliest. He predicts the construction and transportation sectors will grow next year, while manufacturing will experience a slowdown.

Other sectors Hicks predicts will see growth include public utilities and communication. He says State and local government, finance, insurance and real estate will all likely struggle in 2012.

The report also covers local economies. Hicks says the forecast shows potential growth in Bloomington, Columbus, Kokomo, Terre Haute and Michigan City. He predicts Muncie's economy will shrink.