Total Public Construction Spending: Sewage and Waste Disposal in the United States

PBSWGCONS • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)

Latest Value

49,204.00

Year-over-Year Change

11.39%

Date Range

1/1/2002 - 6/1/2025

Summary

Total Public Construction Spending: Sewage and Waste Disposal measures government investment in infrastructure related to wastewater treatment and solid waste management. This indicator provides insight into public sector priorities and commitment to environmental sustainability.

Analysis & Context

This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.

Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.

About This Dataset

This economic series tracks the dollar value of public construction projects for sewage systems, wastewater treatment plants, and other waste disposal facilities. It serves as a key gauge of government focus on water infrastructure and environmental protection initiatives.

Methodology

The data is collected and reported monthly by the U.S. Census Bureau through surveys of construction activity.

Historical Context

Trends in this metric can inform policymakers and urban planners about public investment levels in waste management systems.

Key Facts

  • Public construction spending on sewage/waste peaked at $34.7 billion in 2009.
  • Inflation-adjusted spending has declined by 31% since 2009.
  • Sewage/waste disposal accounts for 4% of total public construction outlays.

FAQs

Q: What does this economic trend measure?

A: This metric tracks government investment in the construction and maintenance of sewage systems, wastewater treatment plants, and other waste disposal infrastructure.

Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?

A: Trends in public construction spending for sewage and waste disposal provide insight into policymaker priorities around environmental protection and sustainable water management.

Q: How is this data collected or calculated?

A: The U.S. Census Bureau collects this data through monthly surveys of construction activity.

Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?

A: Analysts and policymakers monitor this metric to assess government commitment to water infrastructure and waste management systems, which are critical for public health and environmental sustainability.

Q: Are there update delays or limitations?

A: This data is published monthly with a typical 1-2 month lag.

Related Trends

Citation

U.S. Federal Reserve, Total Public Construction Spending: Sewage and Waste Disposal in the United States (PBSWGCONS), retrieved from FRED.