The Dodge Momentum Index is a new 12-month leading indicator of construction spending for nonresidential buildings. Its data is derived from first-issued planning reports in the United States–McGraw-Hill Construction’s Dodge Reports. Because projects in planning may proceed architect selection, it is an earlier indicator of trends than is the AIA Architectural Billing Index.

While the index now predicts an upturn in construction sometime next year, its steady decline throughout 2011 and the first quarter of 2012 suggests that there will be continued stress in the industry in the short-term future.