S.C. Contracts Surging To a Happy Ending for 2011

A big jump in the value of new infrastructure contracts pushed South Carolina’s overall total for November construction well above the year-ago figure, virtually guaranteeing a positive 2011 for the state, according to McGraw-Hill Construction. The company estimated the state’s November contracts total at nearly $1.4 billion, or more than double the year-ago pace of roughly $510.2 million.

Nonbuilding contracts, which include infrastructure projects, totaled nearly $1.1 billion—nearly $1 billion ahead of last year’s November total of $140.1 million for this category. The residential category also registered some positive momentum, gaining 14% compared to a year ago, for a $229.7-million total. The value of nonresidential contracts fell significantly, however, dropping 51% for a $82.9-million total.

For the year-to-date, McGraw-Hill Construction now estimates South Carolina’s 2011 construction contracts at nearly $7.4 billion, or 17% ahead of 2010.

Nonbuilding is once again leading the charge. That category’s total is $2.1 billion, or 35% ahead of 2010’s pace through November. McGraw-Hill Construction estimates nonresidential contracts at nearly $2.1 billion, or 17% better than a year ago. Residential contracts are estimated at $3.1 billion through November, 7% ahead of 2010.

Scott Judy is Deputy Editor for Regions, and editor of ENR Southeast, one of Engineering News-Record's 10 Regional publications. His roughly 27 years as a construction journalist began with an 11-year stint covering Midwest construction projects. In 2000, Judy helped launch the publication now known as ENR Southeast. He often delves into controversial aspects of the construction industry such as bankruptcies and fatal accidents, and wishes he would never have to cover another accident but suspects that he might.