AIA Releases September Architecture Billings Index

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WASHINGTON, D.C. — Billings at architecture firms in September increased at their fastest pace since late 2010. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the Architecture Billings Index reflects the approximate nine to 12-month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects reported the September ABI score was 51.6, up from the mark of 50.2 in August. This score reflects an increase in demand for design services (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 57.3, compared to a mark of 57.2 the previous month. “Going back … Read more

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New Alternative Compliance Paths Now Available for International LEED Projects

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Washington, D.C. – A new set of Global Alternative Compliance Paths, or Global ACPs, are now available for all commercial projects pursuing LEED certification using the 2009 versions of the rating systems. Global ACPs offer a flexible method for projects around the world to demonstrate compliance with the LEED credits that are traditionally more challenging for projects outside of the U.S. “Global consistency and a regional approach mean providing flexibility in referenced standards while ensuring that LEED certification signifies the same level of excellence worldwide,” said Scot Horst, senior vice president, LEED, USGBC. “By focusing on global standards and solutions, … Read more

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ABC-FEC Announces 2012 Excellence in Construction Award Winners

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Coconut Creek, Fla. — Associated Builders and Contractors" Florida East Coast Chapter   is pleased to announce the winners of the ABC-FEC's 2012 Excellence in Construction Awards held on October 19, 2012 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. These awards recognize the highest quality and innovation of merit shop construction. The panel of judges represents a cross section of the top construction industry experts, including owners, architects, engineers and other industry leaders. By focusing on excellence and cutting-edge processes in merit shop construction, ABC-FEC calls attention to the “best of the best” and continues … Read more

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AGC Releases Latest Employment Data

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Construction employment declined in 28 states from September 2011 to September 2012 even as 30 states added jobs during the past month, according to an analysis by the Associated General Contractors of America of Labor Department data. Association officials noted that the monthly gains, while welcome, were too small to offset the larger annual declines in many states. “Even though a good number of states added jobs in September, most states have a smaller construction workforce than they did a year ago,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. “Between the fiscal cliff, unset tax rates and declining public sector … Read more

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Stevens Construction Begins Renovations at Florida Hospital Tampa

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FORT MYERS, Fla.— Stevens Construction has started construction of a complex, multi-phase revitalization of Florida Hospital Tampa, announced Mark Stevens, company president. The master project includes both interior and exterior updates to the building. Exterior updates include 202,732 square feet of updated exterior vertical wall surface, the addition of over 30,000 square feet of impact-rated glass windows on the south, main and north towers and unique up-lighting features to illuminate the hospital exterior. The main tower will also undergo a new canopy entry and roof replacement renovations. The interior renovation of 355 patient rooms will include new flooring and painting. … Read more

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