AGC Construction Data • JULY 29, 2026

A July report from AGC Construction Data reveals that construction jobs increased in only 165 of the 360 metro areas from June 2025 to June 2026. The analysis indicates that over half of these areas are facing stagnant or declining construction activity due to factors such as material price uncertainties, data center approval delays, labor availability, and future transportation funding concerns. Ken Simonson, the chief economist for the Associated General Contractors of America, warns that unresolved issues could continue to hinder hiring in the sector.

Federal Reserve • JULY 29, 2026

The Federal Open Market Committee (FOMC) convened on July 29, 2026, and voted 9 to 3 to maintain the federal funds rate target range at 3.5% to 3.75%. The Committee's decision reflects its dual mandate, as it continues to ensure ample reserves in the banking system amidst solid economic growth and ongoing inflation concerns. Dissenting members advocated for a 1/4 percentage point increase in the rate.

Pittsburgh City Council • JULY 28, 2026

The Pittsburgh City Council meeting minutes from July 28, 2026, include the attendance of all nine council members and the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance. The council issued several proclamations, established funding transfers for various departments, and approved resolutions concerning grants and donations for community services. All actions taken during the meeting were passed unanimously.

DCED Newsroom • JULY 27, 2026

The Shapiro Administration has extended the application deadline for school infrastructure improvement funds, as announced by the DCED Newsroom in July 2026. The 2026-27 budget allocates $125 million for these initiatives, with $100 million specifically for the Public School Facility Grant Program. Since the start of Governor Josh Shapiro's term, approximately $175 million has been invested, assisting 208 schools.

AGC • JULY 24, 2026

The July 24, 2026, report from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) outlines trends in U.S. construction employment and activity for June 2026. Construction jobs increased in 28 states and the District of Columbia, with Texas leading in job gains, while total construction starts rose by 11% year-to-date compared to 2025.

AGC Construction Data • JULY 21, 2026

A report from AGC Construction Data, released on July 21, 2026, reveals that construction employment increased in 33 states and the District of Columbia from June 2025 to June 2026, with 28 states adding jobs month-to-month from May to June. The findings highlight a widespread positive trend in construction hiring, although challenges such as tariffs and funding uncertainties are noted. Macrina Wilkins, the association’s director of market insights, emphasizes that more states experienced job gains than losses during this period.

Pittsburgh City Council • JULY 21, 2026

The Pittsburgh City Council convened on July 21, 2026, at 10:00 AM in the Council Chambers, with all nine council members present. The meeting included the passage of multiple proclamations, public comments, and key resolutions, such as authorizing funding for public safety recruitment and approving contracts for consulting services and park lighting improvements. The proceedings concluded with reports from committees and the approval of meeting minutes.

AGC • JULY 17, 2026

The July 17, 2026 report from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) outlines current trends in nonresidential construction input prices, labor settlements, and housing statistics. Notably, nonresidential input prices decreased by 0.5% in June, influenced by a significant drop in diesel fuel prices, while metal prices have risen significantly year-over-year due to tariffs. The report also highlights an increase in unionized wage settlements for construction workers and a rebound in housing starts, driven primarily by multifamily units.

Federal Reserve • JULY 17, 2026

The Federal Reserve's report titled "The AI Buildout and the Economy: Publicly Available Data to Assess AI's Impact," released on July 17, 2026, analyzes indicators related to the development of generative AI and its economic implications. It categorizes these indicators into capabilities and costs, firm investment and adoption, and productivity and labor, while discussing the challenges in measuring AI's contributions to GDP and the complexities surrounding productivity gains and labor market shifts. The report emphasizes the importance of ongoing monitoring to comprehend AI's macroeconomic effects.

DCED Newsroom • JULY 17, 2026

Governor Shapiro has announced an investment of over $134 million in 100 community and economic development projects in Southwestern Pennsylvania, as reported by DCED Newsroom on July 17, 2026. Funded through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, these projects focus on enhancing economic development, public safety, infrastructure, and workforce development. The initiative aims to strengthen local communities and support overall economic growth.