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    Economy

    Architect Confidence Reflected in Higher ABI Score

    Written by Sandy Williams


    The American Institute of Architects’ Architecture Billings Index (ABI) rose to 55.0 in December from a reading of 51.7 in November, reflecting an increase in design services provided by U.S. architecture firms. The new projects inquiry index was 61.1, up from a reading of 60.2 the previous month, while the new design contracts index rose slightly from 52.8 to 53.2.

    “Not only are design billings overall seeing their strongest growth of the year, the strength is reflected in all major regions and construction sectors,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker. “The construction industry continues to show surprising momentum heading into 2018.”

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