The Introduction of the Department of Energy Forrestal Complex Redevelopmental Act of 2014
Floor Speech
Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I introduce the Department of Energy Forrestal Complex Redevelopment Act to direct the General Services Administrator (GSA) to redevelop this site using its authorities to enter into public-private partnerships in accordance with the National Capital Planning Commission's (NCPC) Southwest (SW) Ecodistrict Plan. The Department of Energy (DOE) Forrestal Complex is located at 1000 Independence Avenue SW., and has the potential to serve as a gateway to renewed development in this section of the National Mall area in downtown Washington. For many years, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and its Subcommittee on Economic Development, Public Buildings and Emergency Management have expressed concern about excess federal property, wasteful spending, energy efficiency, and space utilization practices. This bill, which would maximize use of valuable, centrally located land for public and private uses, responds to this concern.
GSA and DOE have been assessing the needs of the DOE and any costs and benefits associated with disposing of the assets at the complex. In the last few months, GSA released a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for two of its properties in close proximity to the DOE Forrestal Complex, the Cotton Annex and the GSA Regional Office Building, which are part of the SW Ecodistrict Plan. Portions of the Forrestal Complex lie between these two parcels, and their redevelopment will aid the in the realization of the SW Ecodistrict Plan, which has been embraced by the NCPC and the District of Columbia.
Redevelopment of the Forrestal Complex will enable mixed-use development, and it would accommodate the uses agreed to in the SW Ecodistrict Plan. The plan includes a modern headquarters for DOE that combines reduced but more efficient utilization of federal government office space, more sustainable practices to preserve energy and water, and the possible location of a nationally significant museum or memorial. In addition, it would bring the SW Ecodistrict closer to fruition.
I urge my colleagues to support this timely, important legislation.
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