Total construction spending registered a small gain in April but showed very mixed patterns among major segments, according to an analysis of new census bureau data by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials cautioned that a surge in certain project types and regions could leave the industry short of workers even while overall unemployment remains high. “The report underscores patterns that have prevailed for several months: surging home and apartment construction, volatile private nonresidential activity and shrinking public investment,” said Ken Simonson, the association’s chief economist.”This uneven result is leading to selected materials cost increases and localized reports … Read more

Construction employment increased in 170 out of 339 metropolitan areas between April 2012 and April 2013, declined in 123 and was stagnant in 46, according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials noted that a majority of metro areas are adding construction jobs as private sector demand accelerates in many parts of the country. “Demand for construction continues to grow in many parts of the country amid increasing private sector investments in new residential, energy and supply chain facilities like factories, rail lines and warehouses,” said Ken Simonson, … Read more