( KTRS ) Illinois’ unemployment rate rose slightly in February to 6.4 percent, increasing for the fourth straight month.

The Illinois Department of Employment Security says that the number of people employed across the state increased by 18,100 people. But state officials say that as more people seek jobs Illinois’ economy is not creating enough positions.

Illinois Department of Commerce Director Jim Schultz said that improvements in the national economy are motivating more long-term unemployed people to look for work.

The largest job gains last month were the 6,600 jobs added by the professional and business services sector. Construction firms reduced employment by 2,400 jobs.