Future construction pace slows in Nov.

The total value of future construction projects scheduled to be built in New Hampshire slowed considerably in November 2010. According to figures from industry information service McGraw-Hill Construction, there was a 52 percent drop in nonbuilding projects — roads, bridges and similar jobs — from October 2010. The total value of future projects in November was $19.8 million, almost $22 million less than the $41.4 million in projects reported in October. There was softness in the nonresidential sector as well, with $31.7 million in future projects reported in November, 2 percent less than the $32.4 million reported in October. The one bright spot was in the residential sector, with $46.6 million in future project reported in November, 22 percent higher than the $38 million reported a month earlier. Overall, the total value of contracts reported in November 2010 was $98.1 million, 12 percent less than the $111.9 million reported in October. Through the first 11 months of 2010, a total of $1.94 billion in future construction contracts has been reported, 5 percent more than the $1.84 billion reported in the same period a year earlier. — JEFF FEINGOLD/NEW HAMPSHIRE BUSINESS REVIEW