But spending did increase on a year-over-year basis.

Total construction posted an 0.2% decline on a monthly basis, but recorded a solid 5% pickup from the year-earlier total.

Some, but far from all, federal infrastructure and construction programs would gain increases under congressional spending measures covering the rest of fiscal year 2020.

Commerce Dept. says construction spending declines 1.3% on monthly basis but climbs 1.6% vs. June 2016.

Legislation increases highway, mass transit funding to FAST Act levels.

Industry economists note that Nov. $1.18-trillion rate was highest since 2006; nonresidential sector's level strongest in eight years.

Census Bureau reports October spending up a slight 0.5% from September but rose 3.4% from October 2015.