Construction Workers May Have Benefitted from Improving Winter Weather as Industry Experiences Largest Monthly Employment Gain Since March 2007, Construction Officials Note The construction industry added 33,000 jobs in February even as the industry's unemployment rate was 21.8 percent, more than twice the national average, according to an analysis of new federal employment data released today by the Associated General Contractors of America. As welcome as the new figures are, association officials cautioned that it was too early to tell whether the industry is improving or simply benefitting from the more favorable weather in February compared to the previous month. … Read more
January Construction Numbers Released
Drops in Nearly All Private Nonresidential Categories Offset Small Public Gains, Mixed Residential Results; Construction Officials Urge Quick Congressional Action to Keep Federal Funds Flowing Construction spending slumped 0.7 percent from $798 billion in December to $792 billion in January, the lowest seasonally adjusted annual rate since July 2000, the Associated General Contractors of America noted today in an analysis of new Census Bureau data. Association officials noted that nearly every private nonresidential category plunged, offsetting pickups in some residential and public nonresidential segments. They added that since January 2010, construction spending has declined by 5.9 percent. “These discouraging figures … Read more
Denver Excelling in LEED Green Building Development
Nearly 30 projects certified since 2010 under the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED rating system DENVER, Colo. — The mile high city has a decidedly green tinge. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) today noted that nearly 30 projects in Denver have achieved LEED green building certification since 2010 and two of these developments achieved LEED's highest rating, Platinum. “Colorado's culture of sustainability and conservation are part of its DNA; individual cities like Denver clearly understand the importance of green building as a part of that culture,” says Deb Kleinman, executive director of USGBC Colorado Chapter. “From the largest commercial … Read more
ICC, NACTM Agreement Will Make Tribal Land Construction Safer, More Sustainable
The International Code Council and Native American Construction Training Management (NACTM), Inc. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that combines safe and sustainable construction methods that result from building to code and continues the Native American heritage for efficient use of natural resources. The agreement centers on strategies that will create a single, complete system of sustainable commercial and residential codes for all that live on and use Tribal lands throughout the United States. Both organizations promote greater public safety through the implementation and enforcement of building codes, professional training, and the conservation of natural resources. “Wise and efficient use … Read more
US Department of Labor Announces Grant Increment to Continue Assisting Texans Affected by Layoffs in Construction and Manufacturing
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Labor recently announced a $1,179,312 increment to continue providing assistance to about 500 workers affected by layoffs from multiple companies in the construction and manufacturing industries in central and southeastern Texas. “The Labor Department remains committed to helping these Texans prepare for new jobs that will lead to long-term careers,” said Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis. “As our economic recovery takes hold, it is important to continue support for individuals who have lost jobs through no fault of their own and are still doing their best to re-enter the workforce.” On Dec. … Read more