ABC: Backlog, Profit Margin Expectations Improve in April Despite Tariff Impacts

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Associated Builders and Contractors reported that its Construction Backlog Indicator rose to a 20-month high of 8.7 months in April, according to an ABC member survey conducted April 22 to May 6. The reading is up 0.3 months since April 2024. Backlog has increased significantly over the past year for contractors with greater than $100 million in annual revenues. While backlog has also risen modestly for the smallest contractors, it is down on an annual basis for those with $30 million to $100 million in annual revenues. ABC’s Construction Confidence Index reading for profit margins improved in April, while the … Read more

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USGBC Launches New, More Comprehensive LEED Rating System

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The U.S. Green Building Council launched LEED v5, the latest version of its flagship Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design green building program. LEED v5 registration is available for new construction, interior and existing commercial building projects. Highlights include: Decarbonization accounts for half of all points for LEED v5 certification to confront current climate needs. The new rating system provides clear, actionable steps to deliver ultra-low-carbon buildings by targeting emissions reductions across all aspects of the building lifecycle. All LEED v5 projects will complete an operational carbon projection and will be given tools to craft a comprehensive, long-term decarbonization strategy. Quality … Read more

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Associated Builders and Contractors Releases Latest Construction Spending Analysis

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National nonresidential construction spending decreased .5% in March, according to an Associated Builders and Contractors’ analysis of data published by the U.S. Census Bureau. On a seasonally adjusted annualized basis, nonresidential spending totaled $1.25 trillion. Spending was down on a monthly basis in 11 of the 16 nonresidential subcategories. Private nonresidential spending fell .8%, while public nonresidential construction spending was down .2% in March. “Nonresidential construction spending fell sharply in March, with declines spread across virtually every private subsector,” said ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu. “Data center investments, which accounted for more than 70% of the increase in private nonresidential … Read more

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Early Bird Registration Now Open for International Code Council’s 2025 Annual Conference, Expo and Hearings

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Registration is now open for the International Code Council’s Annual Conference, Expo and Hearings to be held Oct. 19-30 in Cleveland, Ohio. This year’s conference offers industry-leading educational sessions, networking events, an insightful keynote speaker and opportunities to volunteer in the local community. Immediately following the conference is the second Committee Action Hearings of Group B proposals for the 2027 International Codes. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and expertise through networking events and educational sessions. Attendees can also attend the Annual Business Meeting where important updates and decisions about Code Council leadership are made. Generational … Read more

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McCarthy Completes $20M Renovation of Historic El Cortez Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas

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McCarthy Building Companies completed the $20-million, 18,000-square-foot renovation and expansion of the El Cortez Hotel & Casino, enhancing one of downtown Las Vegas, Nevada’s most storied landmarks while preserving its rich heritage. The renovation expands the casino’s footprint by 10,000 square feet, improves 4,000 square feet of existing space and introduces a host of new features including a high-limit gaming lounge, a modern Asian eatery—Hot Noods by Chinglish and the Show Bar, a centerpiece entertainment venue featuring a 20-foot-wide LED screen for sports and music videos and a stage for live performances. Nearly 200 additional slot machines, a roulette-themed bar … Read more

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