CHARLOTTE, N.C. — While the Carolinas AGC Construction Barometerâ„¢ notched up 1% for third quarter 2010, continuing its upward movement for the third consecutive quarter, there’s still simply no clear trend out of the recession. Values that strengthened a bit in second quarter deteriorated somewhat in third quarter, while variables that fell in second quarter strengthened modestly in the third. Contractors do appear to be growing cautiously more optimistic about 2011, reporting they expect stable-to-modestly improving business conditions over the coming year. Quarter three’s construction labor market showed a bit stronger demand for skilled labor and a small increase in … Read more
Green Building's Top Ten Trends for 2011
Green building consultant Jerry Yudelson offers his insights on the green building industry with a list of top trends for 2011; worldwide green building growth is the fastest-growing trend. TUCSON, Ariz.— Green building and sustainability consultant Jerry Yudelson says that the green building industry will rebound in 2011 in spite of the continuing economic difficulties in most developed countries, citing 10 major trends. Speaking about his annual “Top Ten” list of green building trends, the green building expert and author said, “What we"re seeing is that more people are going green each year, and there is nothing on the horizon … Read more
Growing Number of Metro Areas – 120 Out Of 337 – Added Construction Jobs between November 2009 & 2010
Phoenix, Ariz. and Hanford-Corcoran, Calif. Top List of Metro Areas Adding Jobs while Chicago and Napa, Calif. Lose Most Jobs for the Year Construction employment either increased or remained steady in a growing number of metropolitan areas — 120 of 337 — between November 2009 and November 2010 according to a new analysis of federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. Association officials said construction employment is improving slightly thanks in large part to temporary federal funding for stimulus and military construction. “It is good to see the construction industry finishing the year on a … Read more
US Labor Department’s OSHA Certifies Philadelphia Construction Company as ‘Star’ Site for Workplace Safety and Health
PHILADELPHIA — The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration has certified L.F. Driscoll LLC’s construction site at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as a “star” worksite, the highest honor in its Voluntary Protection Programs. “L.F. Driscoll’s commitment to ensuring a safe and healthful work environment for employees makes it most deserving of this honor,” said John Hermanson, OSHA’s regional administrator in Philadelphia, who attended the ceremony. L.F. Driscoll employs 115 workers and completes building construction projects ranging from very small renovations to major building expansion projects. The Voluntary Protection Programs recognize employers and workers in private industry … Read more
Architecture Billings Index Reaches Highest Score Since 2007
Business conditions continue to vary by sector and region Washington, D.C. — After stepping back in October reversing into the negative territory, the Architecture Billings Index (ABI) rose more than three points in November to reach its highest mark since December 2007. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine to twelve month lag time between architecture billings and construction spending. The American Institute of Architects (AIA) reported the November ABI score was 52.0, up from a reading of 48.7 the previous month. This score reflects an increase in demand for … Read more