economics
Report highlights aggregates’ contribution to economy
The Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration (SME) published a technical briefing paper pointing to the contributions of the U.S. aggregates industry to infrastructure investment. SME also called for full funding of the nation's surface transportation programs. "Infrastructure improvements will… Keep Reading
Nonresidential building carries new construction starts in May
New construction starts in May advanced 5 percent from April, according to McGraw Hill Construction. Much of the upward lift came from nonresidential building, which registered moderate growth for the second straight month after a sluggish performance at the outset… Keep Reading
Index shows continued promise for nonresidential building
The Dodge Momentum Index, a monthly measure of the first report for nonresidential building projects in planning, rose 3.6 percent in May from the previous month, according to McGraw Hill Construction. The index has risen for six consecutive months, marking… Keep Reading
First-quarter crushed-stone production down
According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), an estimated 211 million metric tons (Mt) of crushed stone were produced and shipped for consumption in the United States in the first quarter of 2013 – a decrease of 4 percent compared with… Keep Reading
Proposed bill leans on corporations for infrastructure funds
A unique form of infrastructure funding was introduced last week when Rep. John K. Delaney (D-Md.) crafted The Partnership to Build America Act, which would create a $50 billion fund that makes bonds available for purchase to global corporations based… Keep Reading
Nonresidential Construction Index hits record high
FMI released its second-quarter Nonresidential Construction Index (NRCI) report, giving nonresidential construction its highest score in more than four years after receiving feedback from its panelists. The NRCI score of 60.1 is a two-point improvement over the first quarter of… Keep Reading
Dodge Momentum Index at highest mark in nearly four years
The Dodge Momentum Index, a monthly measure of the first report for nonresidential building projects in planning, rose 5.2 percent in April from the previous month, according to McGraw Hill Construction. Gains have been reported for the momentum index in… Keep Reading
Virginia roads bill signed into law
The commonwealth of Virginia's road construction fund was on a pace to run out in four years. But a landmark transportation-funding bill Gov. Bob McDonnell (R-Va.) ceremoniously signed Monday will generate $1.4 billion per year for Virginia's roads and highways.… Keep Reading
Vulcan makes first-quarter results public
Vulcan Materials Co. released its 2013 first-quarter results today, noting that its aggregates gross profit was down over the prior year's first quarter yet emphasizing that the company's business segments performed as they were expected to. "Aggregates segment gross profit,… Keep Reading
