Power Construction, Residential Improvements Offset Declines in Most Private Categories; Public Construction Continues to Rise but Change in Congress; State and Local Budget Woes Augur Downturn Ahead Construction spending increased by 0.4 percent in November, the third straight rise in the total, the Associated General Contractors of America noted today in an analysis of new Census Bureau data. Private residential and public construction each gained 0.7 percent compared with October's totals, while private nonresidential construction edged down 0.1 percent. “It is heartening to see three increases in a row for the total,” said Ken Simonson, the association's chief economist. “But … Read more

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

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