Architecture Billings Improve in October

Billings increased for architectural design services in October after two months of decline, reported the American Institute of Architects. The Architecture Billings Index rose to 52.0 from 49.7 in September. New project inquiries and design contract scores were somewhat lower but both positive at scores of 57.9 and 52.9, respectively.

“Although ongoing uncertainty over the direction of economic growth persists, a strong stock market and growing payrolls at U.S. businesses continue to generate more construction projects,” said AIA Chief Economist Kermit Baker.“ With most regional and sector billing scores at architecture firms improving from the previous month, we’re seeing a bit of a rebound from disappointing levels of design activity in recent months.”