Although the markets for some types of buildings in some areas of the country remain depressed, most have turned upward with the general economy. Building architects, engineers and contractors are reporting that business is good. Some building-related legislation passed last year is likely to have an effect on the buildings market this year and in the near future. In terms of sheer numbers, the 15. 6-billion housing authorization bill passed in November is probably the most significant. In passing the bill, Congress created two new progams, one providing 615 million in rehabilitation and development grants for rental units and the other setting aside 242 million for housing vouchers. In 1984 and the years to follow, there will also be continuing interest in building automation and the so-called 'intelligent building,' an office tower that has its heating, lighting, ventilation, transportation, security, fire and telecommunications systems integrated and controlled by a central computer.
