Dodge Momentum Index Inches Up 1% in October

HAMILTON, N.J. (Nov. 7, 2023) — The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI), issued by Dodge Construction Network, increased 1% in October to 181.7 (2000=100) from the revised September reading of 180.3. Over the month, the commercial component of the DMI rose 2.0%, while the institutional component retreated 1.4%.

“Heightened momentum in warehouse planning activity supported the commercial side of the Index this month, while muted education planning activity slowed the institutional portion,” stated Sarah Martin, associate director of forecasting for Dodge Construction Network. “Overall levels of planning activity remain robust and will support construction spending over the next 12 to 18 months.”

Improvements in warehouse planning helped support commercial growth, but despite strong progress in September, education and health care activity slowed down this month. Year over year, the DMI was 8% lower than in October 2022. The commercial segment was down 14%, while the institutional segment was up 7%. 

A total of 21 projects valued at $100 million or more entered planning in October. The largest commercial projects to enter planning included the $215 million Google Data Center in Kansas City, Missouri, and the $180 million Mauna Kea Beach Hotel in Waimea, Hawaii. The largest institutional projects to enter planning included the $400 million Grand Sierra Resort Arena in Reno, Nevada, and $267 million renovation to Keller Auditorium in Portland, Oregon.

The DMI is a monthly measure of the initial report for nonresidential building projects in planning, shown to lead construction spending for nonresidential buildings by a full year.

Watch Sarah Martin discuss October’s DMI here.