WASHINGTON, D.C. — Led by the commercial sector, the Architecture Billings Index has remained in positive territory four months in a row. The ABI reflects the approximate nine- to 12-month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects reported the February ABI score was 51.0, following a mark of 50.9 in January. This score reflects a slight increase in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 63.4, up from mark of 61.2 the previous month and its highest reading since July 2007. “This … Read more

The cost of construction materials accelerated dramatically in February after moderating for several months, according to an analysis of producer price index figures released by the Associated General Contractors of America. As a result, construction firms will be forced to pay more for key materials even as demand for construction remains weak, association officials noted. “Prices for a wide range of construction inputs rose sharply in February, threatening to put contractors out of business and leave public projects underfunded unless materials can be ordered before prices jump further,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. “Contractors had finally begun to … Read more

Construction spending inched down less than 0.1 percent in January, following a large upward revision in December and November, according to a new analysis of federal data released by the Associated General Contractors of America. All forms of residential construction did well for the month and year-over-year, while private nonresidential spending was mixed and public construction declined amid continued congressional delays in passing a host of long-term infrastructure and tax measures. “The strong gains in single-family homebuilding in December and January probably have a lot more to do with the unusually mild weather compared to year-ago conditions, than surging demand … Read more