​Construction spending — May 1

Construction spending rebounded in February following a two-month decline. One drag on the growth rate has been uncertainty around the Trump administration's infrastructure spending plans, which took another hit last week with the announcement that the administration's tax reform plan likely won't include a funding mechanism for infrastructure. On Monday, May 1, the Commerce Department will release its construction spending figures for March, which will offer more details on how the industry is responding to the political variability.

Lendlease Safety Week Q-and-A — May 1

Now in its fourth year, Safety Week kicks off Monday in an effort to draw attention to job-site safety. In our feature article on Monday, May 1, we'll talk with James Mooney, head of environment, health and safety for Lendlease, about the annual event and the overall need for the industry to put safety first.

Amusement features as a draw for projects — May 2

Developers are using fun, family-centric attractions to bring in a new generation of visitors and tenants. The appearance of amusement-based features is on the rise in both public spaces and private developments. In our feature article on Tuesday, May 2, we’ll talk to experts to find out why this trend continues to grow.

A look at the latest kitchen design trends — May 2

Home improvement spending is on the rise, and kitchens are on the top of owners' lists for a remodel. From frameless cabinetry to high-tech appliances, today's kitchen upgrades require more than just updating finishes. On Tuesday, May 2, we'll report back from conversations with designers and manufacturers in the space about the trends shaping kitchens today.

Building for space exploration — May 3

NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, FL, is making big changes in an effort to prepare for its major Space Launch System initiative, which aims to enable deep space exploration and send a vehicle to Mars. Construction Dive got an inside look at projects currently underway at the center's Launch Pad 39B, the Vehicle Assembly Building and the Mobile Launcher. Check back on Wednesday, May 3, for a peek at the work that goes into making the next launch possible.

​Our top construction safety stories — May 3

It's Safety Week, which offers an annual reminder that worker safety should be prioritized at every step of a construction project. On Wednesday, May 3, we'll take a look back through our archive at some of our top safety related stories. Where safety is concerned, it never hurts to review.

​Public vs. private construction projects — May 4

Some contractors say the difference between public and private work is like night and day. In our feature article on Thursday, May 4, we’ll find out how the building process differs between the two sectors, as well as the pros and cons of each.

​Design efficiency lessons from prefab leaders — May 4

Modular and prefab builders are often credited for their ability to streamline design and construction, reducing time, cost and material waste. They don't have all the answers, but the emerging category is proving out the method and inspiring other segments of the industry along the way. On Thursday, May 4, we'll share best practices from prefab housing leaders that can help construction business of all types work more efficiently.

Construction employment — May 5

Construction payroll growth slowed in March, with gains in the nonresidential sector balanced by a contraction in residential after mild weather in February took the edge off the seasonal gains expected for the month. On Friday, May 5, the Bureau of Labor Statistics will release its employment figures for April, which will show the extent to which factors beyond the weather — such as a tight labor supply, land development costs and uncertainty around federal infrastructure spending — are impacting hiring.