71.   Then, in the second quarter, higher interest rates led to diminished construction activity, and demand for many chemicals fell.

72.   U.S. construction activity advanced at a faster-than-expected pace in June, led by spending on offices, hospitals and factories, government figures showed.

73.   U.S. construction activity showed unexpected strength in December, as spending on offices, hotels and other commercial buildings increased.

74.   U.S. construction activity unexpectedly dropped in July to the lowest level in six months as investment waned for residential buildings, public and commercial projects alike.

75.   U.S. construction activity unexpectedly rose in April, as rising mortgage rates failed to discourage buyers and builders of new homes and commercial projects alike.

76.   U.S. construction activity showed unexpected strength in January, led by increased spending on public projects.

77.   Unusually wet weather in November and December cut construction activity, Fiel said.

78.   While exports surged, construction activity and business capital spending lagged.

79.   With winter so mild in much of the country, there has probably been more construction activity than anyone would have expected.

80.   Other reports this week have shown stronger-than-expected consumer spending and a rebound in construction activity.