On Friday, the Commerce Dept. released its first estimate on gross domestic product for the first quarter on 2018. The 2.3% increase was a pleasant surprise, coming on the heels of an upward final revision about the US for the 4th quarter to 2.9%. Recent history has shown weaker first quarters, especially following strong year-end finishes. The first quarter GDP gains came from consumer and business spending growth, although inflation had more of an influence in the growth than in many years. The more troubling data from the estimate was the fact that both consumer and business spending was beginning to trend lower. It remains to be seen whether the additional data gathered for the 2nd and final estimates reinforces that slowing trend in the next two months.

The General Contractors Association of Pennsylvania (GCAP) has published a transcript of its interviews with Gov. Wolf and all three leading GOP candidates for governor. GCAP asked each of the four about their proposed policies that will affect construction. Some of them sort of answered. Read the transcript here.

Project news is light. Pitt is seeking proposals for construction management at risk services for its $100 million expansion of Scaife Hall from PJ Dick, Gilbane, Mascaro, Skanska, Rycon, Massaro, Turner and Whiting-Turner. PJ Dick was selected as general contractor for Providence Point’s $40 million expansion in Scott Township. Cavcon Construction is about to break ground on $3.5 million new Youth & Family Center and Admissions buildings at the Adelphoi Village in Latrobe. NRP Group will be building the Pittsburgh Flats apartments at 23rd and Wharton Streets that was originally proposed by the Edwards Communities. NRP will build 330 units later this year.