Dodge Momentum Index Grows 8% in August

The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI) recorded a robust 7.5% increase in August, reaching a new peak of 301.4, signifying an elevated level of non-residential construction planning in the US. This strong performance, which includes a 30% year-to-date rise from 2024 levels, points towards heightened construction activity projected for late 2026 and early 2027. Commercial planning expanded by 8.7%, largely propelled by substantial projects in data centres, logistics warehouses, and hotels. Concurrently, institutional planning grew by 5.4%, bolstered by significant public building initiatives, including detention facilities and court complexes, alongside continued activity in education and healthcare. Analysts note that while the DMI's three-month moving average sustained August’s positive trajectory, owners are increasingly committing to projects despite rising costs, a shift potentially stemming from a resolution of prior tariff-related uncertainties. Year-on-year, the DMI stands 51% higher than August 2024, with institutional planning seeing an 84% surge and commercial planning up 38%. The influx of 51 projects valued at over $100 million into planning during August underscores this optimistic outlook for future construction starts. Read More