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Rich data on the San Francisco market from Dodge Data & Analytics [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the Southern California Regional Rail Authority (Metrolink) and a multi-million dollar project which involves the installation and testing of a complex train monitoring system which is designed to prevent deadly train collisions and accidents such as a July 2013 crash which killed 79 people in Spain. Positive train control (PTC) is mentioned, along with the Parsons construction company and its installation of PTC on three commuter-rail networks in the U.S.

The article discusses the reported optimism of various design firms in California in regards to the construction industry, business revenues, and billings for commercial construction projects as of June 2013. It states that multifamily design work is up 89 percent over 2012 according to an annual California survey. A U.S. recession's impacts on public agencies, staffing budgets, and outsourcing are addressed. The design firm AECOM's infrastructure repair work in California is examined.

The article looks at the construction projects scheduled for 2013 in Arizona and Nevada. Information is provided on the construction of hotels and casinos in Las Vegas, Nevada as well as projects in the warehouse and industrial sectors of both states. Particular attention is also given to the economic aspects of health care facility construction.

The article presents a profile of specialty contractor J.B. Henderson of Albuquerque, New Mexico. The company specializes in mechanical, piping, and security project subcontracting at microelectronics and nuclear facilities, such as the Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. Other topics include the emphasis on hazardous chemical and radiation safety training for employees, the effect of the U.S. recession on the company, and philanthropic activities of the company and its employees.

The article looks at the economic performance of specialty subcontractors in the Southwest region of the U.S. in 2012. Some contractors were able to compensate for waning revenues from New Mexico and Nevada by focusing on Arizona projects or expanding into niche markets and specialties such as solar photovoltaics, fire protection, and health care. Contractors discussed include MasTec Inc., Helix Electric, and KEAR Civil Corp. Also noted is the use of tablet computers and smartphones in projects.