By Canadian Press

Construction spending flat in May

Jul 3, 2017 | 8:15 AM

WASHINGTON — U.S. construction spending was flat in May with homebuilding falling again, even as buyers face climbing prices and a shortage of available properties on the market.

The Commerce Department reported on Monday no increase in construction spending in May, which follows a report two weeks ago showing that housing starts fell for the third straight month.

Economists have been expecting housing construction to play a key role in supporting overall economic growth in 2017 as demand for homes rises amid low unemployment and rising incomes. However, many buyers have been frustrated by limited inventory and rising prices.

Private residential construction fell 0.6 per cent in May, the first decline in that category since April 2016 and its biggest decline since a 0.6 per cent drop in July 2014. Non-residential construction declined 0.7 per cent, the fifth straight monthly decline for the category.

Overall construction spending was reported at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.23 trillion, the same as last month’s revised figure.

With help from Red Deer Youth Council

Mayor and council take part in Green Deer Cleanup Campaign

8h ago

public info session set for may 21

AI data centre, power plant proposed for Olds awaiting further decision

11h ago

Oriole Park area

Three Red Deer youth arrested for alleged assault of 15-year-old girl

12h ago

The flat May number follows April’s decline of 0.7 per cent, which was revised from an originally reported drop of 1.7 per cent. Analysts last month said they thought April’s dismal number was an anomaly and had expected a modest rebound in May, which could still happen with revisions next month.

“Construction activity, unfortunately, continues to disappoint,” said Jennifer Lee, an economist with BMO Capital Markets. “If June is flat again, that would mean a negative quarter for construction.”

Government construction spending rose at the state and federal levels after declines last month. State and local government construction rose 1.7 per cent after last month’s decline of 2.7 per cent. Federal government construction also rebounded, rising 6.4 per cent after a decline of 2.1 per cent in April.

Construction of manufacturing facilities dipped 1.7 per cent in May and is down 10.7 per cent from the same month last year.

Matt Ott, The Associated Press

by Canadian Press

Construction spending flat in May

What's Trending