Associated Builders and Contractors recently reported that its Construction Backlog Indicator expanded to 8.8 months in February 2019, up 0.7 months (8.2%) from January 2019, when the backlog dipped to 8.1 months.
“As predicted, the decreased backlog in the first month of the year reversed in February,” said Anirban Basu, ABC’s chief economist. “Low January readings are typically due to seasonal factors like the holidays and weather, but this year they were further affected by the federal government shutdown. In particular, the backlog in the infrastructure category increased significantly from January to February, which is consistent with the notion that the shutdown delayed a meaningful amount of contract signing.
“The heavy industrial segment was the only category in which backlog declined in February,” said Basu. “In the context of a weakening global economy and a strong dollar, which suppresses U.S. export growth, it is not altogether surprising that construction backlog declined in this category. This also helps explain slightly diminished backlog in the Middle States, which tend to rely more on industrial production. Backlog also bounced back in the commercial/institutional category, an indication of confidence among private developers on both coasts.”
“In general, nonresidential construction activity lags the overall economy by 12 to 18 months,” said Basu. “Last year was good for the economy, with the implication that contractors should expect to remain busy in 2019."
Related Stories
Industry Research | Aug 11, 2017
NCARB releases latest data on architectural education, licensure, and diversity
On average, becoming an architect takes 12.5 years—from the time a student enrolls in school to the moment they receive a license.
Market Data | Aug 4, 2017
U.S. grand total construction starts growth projection revised slightly downward
ConstructConnect’s quarterly report shows courthouses and sports stadiums to end 2017 with a flourish.
Market Data | Aug 2, 2017
Nonresidential Construction Spending falls in June, driven by public sector
June’s weak construction spending report can be largely attributed to the public sector.
Market Data | Jul 31, 2017
U.S. economic growth accelerates in second quarter; Nonresidential fixed investment maintains momentum
Nonresidential fixed investment, a category of GDP embodying nonresidential construction activity, expanded at a 5.2% seasonally adjusted annual rate.
Multifamily Housing | Jul 27, 2017
Apartment market index: Business conditions soften, but still solid
Despite some softness at the high end of the apartment market, demand for apartments will continue to be substantial for years to come, according to the National Multifamily Housing Council.
Market Data | Jul 25, 2017
What's your employer value proposition?
Hiring and retaining talent is one of the top challenges faced by most professional services firms.
Market Data | Jul 25, 2017
Moderating economic growth triggers construction forecast downgrade for 2017 and 2018
Prospects for the construction industry have weakened with developments over the first half of the year.
Industry Research | Jul 6, 2017
The four types of strategic real estate amenities
From swimming pools to pirate ships, amenities (even crazy ones) aren’t just perks, but assets to enhance performance.
Market Data | Jun 29, 2017
Silicon Valley, Long Island among the priciest places for office fitouts
Coming out on top as the most expensive market to build out an office is Silicon Valley, Calif., with an out-of-pocket cost of $199.22.
Market Data | Jun 26, 2017
Construction disputes were slightly less contentious last year
But poorly written and administered contracts are still problems, says latest Arcadis report.
