WASHINGTON, DC-The housing market index, a measure of home builders' expectations, rose two points this month. According to the NAHB, low mortgage rates are offsetting declines in consumer confidence.

RALEIGH, NC-The locally based company's directors have declared 28 cents per common share and 58 cents per preferred share for the first quarter, payable April 16.

NAPA, CA-Plano, TX-based EDS will take 10,000 sf in a 122,000-sf building where monthly office rents have been running about $1.30 sf/mo. The developing 386-acre business park is currently home to Internet solutions provider Verio and semiconductor component manufacturer A.P. Technology.

MINNEAPOLIS- William R. Abel was a senior vice president at Colliers Towle. He now originates, coordinates oversees project development proposals and assignments for Mortenson's customers.