Introduction of the "Old Post Office Development Act of 2008"

Floor Speech

INTRODUCTION OF THE "OLD POST OFFICE DEVELOPMENT ACT OF 2008'' -- (Extensions of Remarks - January 16, 2008)

HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON
OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2008

* Ms. NORTON. Madam Speaker, I introduce the Old Post Office Development Act to make fully useful to the government the nearly empty Old Post Office a unique, historic treasure located at 1100 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W., owned by the Federal government's General Services Administration (GSA). For many years the Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management has expressed concern about the waste and neglect of this valuable government site and has pressed the GSA to develop and use this building. The GSA recognized the need in 2004 and issued a Request for Expression of Interest for which it received many indications of interest. However, for no good or sufficient reason GSA has never proceeded to the next step.

* Because the building was designed as a Post Office in the 19th century, it's present design makes it virtually unusable without appropriate remodeling. During decades of underutilization the government has attempted to make the space suitable for office space, but its huge, cavernous central area on the main floor and the areas that surround the atrium could only accommodate a few very small agencies currently housed there, GSA has indicated that these agencies can be easily and economically relocated elsewhere in the District of Columbia.

* As we begin a new year, further delay in making use of a centrally located historic treasure can no longer be tolerated. Apparently, the private sector stepped forward when the GSA asked for indications of interest. GSA must respond without further delay. I will seek quick passage of this bill to assure that the taxpayers receive the value due long ago for this Federal site.

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