Although the research numbers by each brokerage differ somewhat, they both agree the office market here is improving. "While it is still too early to predict a full recovery, there are some signs that the market is starting to turn," says Michael Sweeney, a Grubb & Ellis vice president.

"There was a rise in absorption due to the signing of some large leases; average rental rates have risen slightly; and there is an increase in new construction," Sweeney says.

"The effects of reduced lease rates, broker incentives and landlord concessions have made a significant impact on the market this quarter," Bobby Palta, executive director of market analytics and geographic information systems at Colliers Arnold, tells GlobeSt.com. The CBD is showing remarkable signs of improvement this quarter, outperforming most other Downtowns in the nation."