Total construction spending remained in a holding pattern in March as strong gains in apartment construction and modest growth in homebuilding and private nonresidential activity offset falling public outlays, according to an analysis of new Census Bureau data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted that the construction spending figures may get dramatically worse unless public officials act urgently to maintain federal highway funding. “Overall construction spending has increased from a year ago but has stayed in a narrow range since December,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “It is encouraging that spending remained level despite … Read more
KBE Building Corp., OSHA Enter New Partnership
BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — The U.S. Department of Labor — OSHA, Bridgeport Area Office and the Connecticut Department of Labor, Division of Occupational Safety and Health have entered into a new partnership with KBE Building Corporation promoting jobsite safety and health. Developed specifically for KBE, the partnership will help facilitate voluntary health and safety performance improvements during completion of KBE’s $72-million Jewish Senior Services Project in Bridgeport. KBE has won Safety Training & Evaluation Process Awards of Achievement from the Associated Builders and Contractors, Inc. — Connecticut Chapter every year since 1995. Most recently, KBE won the “Best of the Best … Read more
AGC Reports on March Year-Over-Year Construction Employment
Construction employment expanded in 197 metro areas, declined in 87 and was stagnant in 55 between March 2013 and March 2014, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted, however, that construction employment stands to suffer if Congress allows federal highway funding to stop this summer. “Much of the country experienced relatively robust growth in construction employment during the past year,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist. “But the fact construction employment remains below prior peak levels in most areas shows just how hard hit the … Read more
The American Institute of Architects Select the 2014 COTE Top Ten Green Projects
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The American Institute of Architects and its Committee on the Environment have selected the top ten examples of sustainable architecture and ecological design projects that protect and enhance the environment. The projects will be honored at the AIA 2014 National Convention and Design Exposition in Chicago. The COTE Top Ten Awards program, now in its 18th year, is the profession’s best known recognition program for sustainable design excellence. The program celebrates projects that are the result of a thoroughly integrated approach to architecture, natural systems and technology. They make a positive contribution to their communities, improve comfort … Read more
ASSE Alabama Chapter Honors Brasfield & Gorrie Safety Leader
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — Brasfield & Gorrie announced that one of its safety leaders has been honored by the Alabama chapter of the American Society of Safety Engineers. During a recent awards ceremony, Brasfield & Gorrie Regional Safety Director Steve Sawyer received the ASSE Alabama Chapter's Safety Professional of the Year award. The most prestigious award granted by the society, the award recognizes safety professionals for their exceptional contributions to safety and health. Sawyer was unanimously selected for this honor by a panel of judges for his contributions to safety and health in Alabama. “Over his 14 years at Brasfield & … Read more