Bernard M. Markstein, Norcross, Ga.-based Reed Construction Data's chief economist, recently offered a revised prediction, which includes a recession scenario, for the firm's economic forecast. "In our recession scenario, the current (third) quarter is subpar, with growth barely above zero," Markstein writes. "The next four quarters then exhibit decline, with the first and second quarters of 2012 down the most. Fourth quarter 2012 is mildly positive, with stronger growth in 2013."

For more on the revised forecast, visit the Reed Construction Data website.