McGraw-Hill Construction has revised its forecast for construction starts in 2009 based on the impact of federal stimulus. “Stimulus spending will shift public works from a negative to a plus,” says Robert Murray, chief economist. Highway and bridge work will be up 15% this year as opposed to a 5% to 10% decline. Environmental markets will show a 10% increase instead of a 5% decline.

Stimulus Spending Will Turn Public Works to Positive Growth
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SOURCE: MCGRAW-HILL CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH & ANALYTICS