Backlog in infrastructure projects ticked up again in May and have returned to May 2022 levels, according to Associated Builders and Contractors’ Construction Backlog Indicator. The Indicator remained unchanged at 8.9 months in May, according to an ABC member survey conducted May 20 to June 7. The reading is 0.1 months lower than in May 2022.
ABC’s Construction Confidence Index reading for sales and staffing levels moved lower in May while the reading for profit margins increased. All three readings remain above the threshold of 50, indicating expectations of growth over the next six months.
“During a period of ongoing tumult associated with major bank failures, a near-miss debt ceiling crisis, and shifting monetary policy, nonresidential construction backlog has remained remarkably stable,” said Anirban Basu, chief economist. “At nearly nine months, backlog is essentially unchanged from a year ago and the previous month.
“Moreover, contractor confidence remains elevated despite massive increases in cost of capital and growing concerns over the nation’s commercial real estate segment, with firms indicating sufficient demand and associated pricing power that will keep profit margins steady or better,” said Basu. “Contractors also expect to bring on additional talent over the next six months, an indication of ongoing industry expansion.”
Source: Associated Builders and Contractors
