Dodge Momentum Index Springs Forward in March

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NEW YORK, N.Y. – The Dodge Momentum Index increased by 0.9 percent in March to 144.4 (2000=100) from its revised February reading of 143.2. The momentum index is a monthly measure of the first (or initial) report for nonresidential building projects in planning, which have been shown to lead construction spending for nonresidential buildings by a full year. The momentum index has now risen for six consecutive months, with much of the gain being driven by institutional projects entering planning while commercial projects so far in 2017 have receded slightly. The institutional portion of the momentum index rose 3.7 percent … Read more

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Nonresidential Construction a Bright Spot in Disappointing Jobs Report, BLS Reveals

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — National construction employment remained largely unchanged in March, adding 6,000 net new jobs on a seasonally adjusted basis, according to analysis of U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data released by Associated Builders and Contractors. The nonresidential construction sector added 13,300 net new jobs for the month, while the residential sector lost 7,600 net jobs. “While today’s jobs report will be viewed primarily as a disappointment, nonresidential construction remains a bright spot, adding 13,000 jobs,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “Nonresidential construction’s growth is impressive given March’s colder weather, but it represents a slowing from the first … Read more

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Construction Material Costs in March Outpace Contractor Pricing

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Double-digit price increases for key construction materials pushed up construction costs in March, while the prices charged by contractors remained moderate, according to a new analysis of federal producer price data released by Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials urged policymakers to avoid adopting restrictions on international trade that would add to materials costs and potentially drive up the price of infrastructure, buildings and new homes and apartments. “Prices have jumped in recent months for diesel fuel, steel, copper, wallboard and lumber—materials essential for houses, nonresidential buildings and infrastructure projects,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “Contractors generally … Read more

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A Chat with Michael Peck, Operations Manager & Superintendent at IWR North America

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Focusing on priorities, an attitude of gratitude are key By Chris Maday Schmidt With almost four decades under his tool belt at IWR North America, Michael Peck’s background includes field experience from journeyman to operations manager – building enclosures & superintendent. Today he is in charge of day-to-day operations with a focus on quality control, labor management, material and equipment procurement and safety, and is responsible for 93 field employees. Join Construction Superintendent as Peck shares project challenges, time-management tricks and tips for the budding superintendent. (Q) What types of communications tools do you use most often when supervising your … Read more

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The Benefits of BIM for Logistics Staging of Cranes, Field Staff

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Construction managers, subcontractors and owners are always looking for innovative solutions to make the construction process more efficient without compromising the safety standards onsite. As it pertains to equipment on the job, cranes are the centerpiece of construction equipment in building projects. While they play a key role in transporting a variety of materials vertically and horizontally, the efficiency of the cranes largely depends on type, number and location. As the number of work tasks and the demand for cranes increase, however, field staff may experience difficulties in making appropriate decisions about the optimum layout of cranes. And poor decisions … Read more

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