Permits were pulled for 750 multifamily units valued at $64 million in April, almost 83% more than the 410 permits in the same month in 2001. Some 2,535 multifamily unit permits were pulled through the first four months of the year, 21% more than last year.

New retail and office development--mostly retail--was also stronger than single-family residential activity. Office construction remained flat as owners struggled to fill existing space.

Retail and office permits valued at $79.8 million were pulled by builders in April, more than triple the $22 million in April 2001. Through April, commercial construction activity totaled $175.2 million, almost 15% higher than the same time last year.