The Architecture Billings Index (ABI) has reverted into negative territory for the last two months. As a leading economic indicator of construction activity, the ABI reflects the approximate nine- to 12-month lead-time between architecture billings and construction spending.

The American Institute of Architects reported the March ABI score was 49.6, up slightly from a mark of 48.8 in March. This score reflects a decrease in design activity (any score above 50 indicates an increase in billings). The new projects inquiry index was 59.1, up from the reading of 57.9 the previous month.

The AIA has added a new indicator measuring the trends in new design contracts at architecture firms that can provide a strong signal of the direction of future architecture billings. The score for design contracts in April was 54.6.

“Despite an easing in demand for architecture services over the last couple of months, there is a pervading sense of optimism that business conditions are poised to improve as the year moves on,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker. “With a healthy figure for design contracts, this should translate into improved billings in the near future.”

Key April ABI highlights:

• Regional averages: South (57.5),West (48.9), Midwest 47.0), Northeast (42.9)

• Sector index breakdown: multifamily residential (52.6), commercial / industrial (50.2), mixed practice (50.7), institutional (47.1)

• Project inquiries index: 59.1; Design contracts index: 54.6.