Editor's Viewpoint

Looking forward to 2008
Part I of this AGC SmartBrief special year-end report looked back at the most important trends and stories of 2007. Part II, below, highlights our predictions and yours for what's expected in 2008.

With no final decisions made and an election year coming up, immigration reform is sure to continue to be a hot topic in the construction industry. Construction green initiatives also are likely to gain ground as builders, contractors, corporations and governments -- local, state and federal -- become more aware of these pressing issues.

AGC will continue as the construction industry's leading advocate in 2008. Its dedicated staff at the national and chapter levels achieved outstanding results in 2007.

Your Predictions

Will commercial construction spending slow down in 2008?

• Yes, demand for commercial projects will decline -- 46%.

• No, demand for commercial projects will remain strong and spending will increase -- 32%.

• Maybe spending will decline, but it depends on the market -- 22%.

Will green design and construction become more prevalent in 2008?

• Yes, the industry will see an increase in green building -- 87%.

• No, green building will remain steady in 2008 -- 6%.

• No, green building will decline in 2008 -- 7%.

Which part of the U.S. will see the most commercial building in 2008?

• The Northeast -- 14%.

• The Midwest -- 18%.

• The South -- 46%.

• The West Coast -- 22%.

Will the cost of construction materials climb in 2008?

• Yes, they will increase -- 77%.

• No, they will remain steady -- 18%.

• No, they will decline -- 5%.

AGC 2008 Events

Upcoming AGC events
AGC Building Division Meeting Jan. 23-26, 2008, Miami

Highway and Utilities Contractors Issues Meeting Feb. 7-9, 2008, Scottsdale, Ariz.

AGC 2008 Annual Convention March 10-14, 2008 Las Vegas

For more information on AGC and upcoming events, visit http://www.agc.org/index.ww

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