Federal Reserve • JULY 15, 2026

The Federal Reserve's Beige Book, published on July 15, 2026, reports modest economic growth across eleven of the twelve Federal Reserve Districts, with one district experiencing no change. Highlights include rising consumer spending, stable auto sales, and modest growth in various sectors, alongside challenges such as increased labor costs and fluctuating agricultural conditions. The report notes moderate price increases and mixed expectations for future inflation, based on insights from contacts outside the Federal Reserve System.

ABC • JULY 14, 2026

The Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) reported a decrease in its Construction Backlog Indicator to 8.8 months in June, down 0.3 months from May but up 0.1 months from June 2025. While the Middle States region showed growth, the Northeast experienced a notable contraction. Despite the decline in backlog, the Construction Confidence Index remains positive, with all components exceeding the growth threshold of 50.

Allegheny County Council • JULY 14, 2026

The Allegheny County Council held a regular meeting on July 14, 2026, at 5:00 PM, led by Vice President Palmiere. The meeting included presentations on civic recognitions, public comments on agenda items, and the adoption of several resolutions and ordinances, including amendments to the Grants and Special Accounts Budget for 2026 and a resolution supporting nurses at Magee-Womens Hospital. The meeting concluded with the approval of a motion to adjourn.

AGC • JULY 10, 2026

The July 10, 2026 report from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) indicates that construction employment increased to 8.33 million in June, with notable gains in nonresidential sectors. In contrast, residential construction employment declined, and overall construction spending showed mixed results, with a slight month-over-month increase but a year-over-year decrease. The report also highlights rising labor costs and varying performance across different construction segments.

Federal Reserve • JULY 8, 2026

The Federal Reserve has released the minutes from the June 2026 Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) meeting, held on June 16-17, 2026. The FOMC discussed economic conditions, noting inflation at 3.8 percent and stable labor market conditions, while unanimously deciding to maintain the federal funds rate at 3.5 to 3.75 percent. The next FOMC meeting is scheduled for July 28-29, 2026.

Allegheny County Council • JULY 7, 2026

The Allegheny County Council meeting on July 7, 2026, will convene at 5:00 PM in the Gold Room, beginning with standard proceedings. The agenda includes proclamations recognizing local entities and events, public comments, approval of previous meeting minutes, and the appointment of Kendra Whitlock Ingram, Senator Devlin Robinson, and Jim Spencer to the Allegheny County Airport Authority. Additionally, proposed ordinances concerning trail renaming, land acceptance adjacent to county parks, and budget amendments will be discussed before concluding with further public comments.

trepp • JULY 6, 2026

A report published on July 6, 2026, by Trepp outlines key economic indicators influencing the Federal Open Market Committee's (FOMC) decisions following a lackluster June jobs report. The FOMC minutes from the June 16-17 meeting will be released, potentially highlighting a shift towards an interest rate hike. Additionally, the Global Supply Chain Pressure Index for June and data on consumer credit from May will be published, offering insights into supply chain conditions and household borrowing trends.

AGC Construction Data • JULY 2, 2026

According to a report from AGC Construction Data, the construction sector added 11,000 jobs in June and a total of 64,000 jobs over the past year. The report highlights concerns that potential job growth may be jeopardized if Congress does not pass new highway and transit legislation by September 30. It also notes that nonresidential construction firms have been increasing their workforce and salaries at higher rates than other sectors, particularly in areas reliant on federal funding.

AGC Construction Data • JULY 2, 2026

A July report from AGC Construction Data outlines the critical September 30 deadline for federal surface transportation programs, which face expiration. The proposed Build America 250 Act seeks to create a long-term authorization for funding essential for improving highways, bridges, and transit systems. The latest ConstructorCast episode features expert analysis on the legislation and the implications of inaction by Congress.

AHN In The News • JULY 1, 2026

On July 1, 2026, Allegheny Health Network (AHN) and Heritage Valley Health System finalized their merger, expanding AHN's network to 16 acute-care hospitals in western Pennsylvania. This merger includes the rebranding of Heritage Valley facilities, the addition of over 3,000 employees, and a significant investment in healthcare infrastructure, notably a $90 million electronic health record system. The agreement has received necessary regulatory approvals and aims to enhance access to quality healthcare services in the region.