The Dodge Momentum Index (DMI), issued by Dodge Construction Network, decreased 4.2% in September to 208.6 (2000=100) from the revised August reading of 217.7. Over the month, commercial planning contracted 7.8% and institutional planning improved 5.2%.
“Despite this month’s decline, the Dodge Momentum Index remains at very robust levels,” stated Sarah Martin, associate director of forecasting at Dodge Construction Network. “A surge in data center activity drove much of the recent rapid growth in the DMI – so as planning for that sector moderated over the month, overall commercial planning fell back. By mid-2025, the Fed’s rate cuts should spur planning projects to reach groundbreaking more quickly – leading to stronger nonresidential activity as 2025 progresses.”