This past January, factories in the United States showed the most growth in seven months, according to The Associated Press. Additionally, builders continued to find more work for the fifth straight month. This news further exemplifies the fact that the U.S. economy has begun 2012 on a relatively strong note.

A major construction project is underway on U.S. Highway 75 in the Dallas/Forth Worth region. Although nothing major has been done, the preliminary stages of work are starting to show up. Orange flags and cones are being laid down to designate the restricted area to tourists, and the heavy lifting should begin in a few weeks, according to Pegasus News.

A recent survey by Wells Fargo & Company sent to construction equipment distributors and contractors found that optimism is higher for 2012 than it was in 2011.

Tricorp Hearn Construction, a large contractor located in northern California, recently completed an extensive renovation of a 106-unit apartment complex, managing to stay within budget and finish the job in a timely manner. As a result, the firm has been awarded with a number of additional contracts throughout the state.

The Northern Indiana Public Service Company (NIPSCO) has announced that it has chosen Babcock & Wilcox Construction Company (BWCC), to construct improvements for one of its power plants in Wheatfield, Indiana.

New York Senator Charles Schumer announced the Army has reached an agreement with the city that will transfer ownership of Admiral's Row - a six-acre site located in the Brooklyn Navy Yard - to New York City. According to The Associated Press, this was the final hurdle standing between city officials and the construction of a supermarket and retail shopping area.

The Living Planet Aquarium in Utah recently tapped a pair of firms for the construction of its new aquarium. According to AttractionsManagement.com, the $18-million building will be a significant upgrade from its current location. While the current location covers 43,000 square feet, the new aquarium will span about 130,000.

Washington state lawmakers will debate a new $1 billion stimulus plan designed to approve funding for a wide variety of infrastructure projects, with the aim of revitalizing the state's construction industry.

The Massachusetts Life Science Center recently awarded $5 million to the Museum of Science - the funds will go toward construction of a new exhibit known as the Hall of Human Life. About 10,000 square-feet have been designated for the Hall, which will offer museum visitors a unique way of understanding our own biology. It will also help bolster the local economy, which has recently shown signs of life after a difficult recession period.

President Obama mentioned the construction industry during his State of the Union address last night, and the remarks appeared to indicate more spending on infrastructure in the future.