Dodge Momentum Index Slips in August

The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) ticked down by -1.2% in August to 171.9 points from the revised July figure of 174 points.

The Momentum Index, issued by Dodge Construction Network, is a monthly measure of the initial report for nonresidential building projects in planning, shown to lead construction spending for nonresidential buildings by a full year. In August, the commercial component of the Momentum Index rose +1%, while the institutional component fell -5.6%.

Commercial planning in August was led by an increase in hotel projects, while fewer healthcare projects drove the institutional component lower. Compared to August 2021, the Momentum Index was up +14%. The commercial component was +16% higher, and the institutional component was +10% higher than a year ago.

A total of 26 projects with a value of $100 million or more entered planning in August. The leading commercial projects were the $400-million Two Tower office building in Chicago; the $300-million phase 2 of the Sungate Logistics Park in Daytona Beach, FL; and the $275-million Aligned Data Center in Sterling, VA. The leading institutional projects were the $360-million Scripps Mercy Hospital expansion and the $275-million Triton Center redevelopment, both located in San Diego. Additionally, $275-million in improvements for Okemos Public Schools in Meridian Charter Township, MI, went into planning since a bond measure for this project will appear on the local ballot in November.

“In spite of weak institutional planning activity, the Momentum Index remained elevated in August, just a notch below July’s 14-year high. This indicates continued confidence from owners and developers that nonresidential building projects will be realized in the coming year,” said Sarah Martin, senior economist for Dodge Construction Network, in the press release. “Weaker economic conditions and rising interest rates, however, may grind down overall consumer and business confidence as we move into 2023 — translating into fewer nonresidential building projects breaking ground.”