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HUD Headquarters on the Chopping Block?
The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) headquarters building is being considered for sale, a move backed by the Trump administration as part of a broader effort to shrink the federal government’s real estate footprint. This decision comes as HUD acknowledges that only half of its D.C. office space is currently being utilized.
The HUD headquarters is the first major federal agency building to be officially listed by the General Services Administration (GSA) for “accelerated disposition.” Republicans are pushing to streamline the government’s real estate holdings and potentially relocate agencies outside of the nation’s capital. However, Democratic lawmakers have introduced legislation to thwart these efforts.
This listing follows a back-and-forth between the GSA and Congress. Last month, the GSA withdrew an initial list of properties slated for sale, which included the HUD building. The agency later published a revised list, with the HUD headquarters now prominently featured.
President Trump has long advocated for moving federal agencies outside of Washington, D.C., citing potential cost savings and a desire to bring government closer to the people. He recently signed an executive order reversing previous restrictions on agency relocation.
HUD Secretary Scott Turner stated that the department is focused on efficient and accountable operations, and is working with the GSA to find the best solution for the American people. While the final location and timeline remain undecided, the D.C. metro area is still a possibility.
The current HUD headquarters, the Robert C. Weaver Federal Building, reportedly requires $500 million in deferred maintenance, costing taxpayers over $56 million annually in rent and operating expenses.
It is located in Southwest D.C. Media reports also suggest that the Department of Agriculture is exploring similar relocation plans.