Construction is slow in the U.S.

How much concrete is being poured is a good indication of how sluggish the construction industry is in the U.S..
The Portland Cement Association has seen only a 0.3% increase in consumption in 2010, and envisages small increases of 1.4% in 2011 and 4% in 2012. The association is not predicting sustained growth until 2013 and beyond.
The association’s chief economist said: “Unfortunately, future gains in construction activity are dictated by labor conditions today. Slow job growth leads to slower home purchases and start activity, it undermines the speed at which state deficits can heal, impacting public construction, and implies low occupancy rates for the non-residential market.”