New construction starts in June decreased 7% from the previous month to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $595.1 billion, according to Dodge Data & Analytics.
The nonbuilding construction sector (public works and electric utilities) fell sharply after being lifted in May by the start of a $3.8-billion oil pipeline in the upper Midwest and seven large powerplant projects totaling $4.3 billion.
Residential building in June edged down, with reduced activity reported for both single-family and multifamily housing.
