As of Feb. 28, the number of new-home construction permits issued in Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties remains nearly flat compared to the same time last year and showed an increase in each county over January. This year’s YTD is 1,289 and last year’s was 1,353. However, in 2015, the January and February total YTD was 860. Builders and forecasters feel confident the steady pace of growth seen last year will continue.