Architectural billings, an indicator of overall health in the construction industry, continued to be down in June, according to the most recent AIA/Dektek Architectural Billings index (ABI).

The index remained in negative territory in June with a score of 46.8, down from 47.2 the prior month as more firms reported a decrease in billing.

The report showed that inquiries into new projects increased for the second straight month and grew at the strongest pace since last fall. While they indicate clients are sending out more requests for proposals and initiating conversations with architectural firms, they don’t necessarily translate into new projects, the report stated.

The value of newly signed design contracts declined for the 16th consecutive month in June.

According to the report, it’s unlikely that billings will return to positive territory until the value of new design contracts increase again.

“The latest ABI report indicates continued challenging conditions for architecture firms, here in Iowa and across the Midwest,” the report stated. “We are certainly feeling the impact with our regional average at 45.7 points. While the slight increase in project inquiries offers a glimmer of hope, it’s essential that these initial conversations convert into signed contracts to truly invigorate the architecture, engineering, and construction industries.”