CONSTRUCTION MATERIAL COSTS OUTRUN FINISHED BUILDING PRICES AGAIN IN APRIL, PUTTING MORE CONTRACTORS AND THEIR EMPLOYEES AT RISK

WASHINGTON, D.C. – May 12, 2011 – (RealEstateRama) — Contractors were only able to partially pass on the costs of rising petroleum and metals prices in April, according to an analysis of producer price index figures released today by the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC). Association officials said the resulting cost squeeze—a result of sluggish demand for construction—will push more construction employees and firms out of work unless public officials act promptly to encourage public and private investment.