HUD to Relocate to Virginia, First Major Cabinet Move Away from D.C. During Trump Administration
On Wednesday, the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) alongside Virginia officials is set to announce a significant relocation, marking the first major cabinet office to move out of Washington, D.C. during President Donald Trump’s tenure.
Virginia Republican Governor Glen Youngkin and HUD Secretary Scott Turner are eager to shift the agency’s headquarters to an existing National Science Foundation (NSF) building located in Alexandria’s Carlisle Eisenhower neighborhood, which hosts a variety of amenities like Wegman’s grocery store, cinemas, and dining options.
The current HUD headquarters, situated at L’Enfant Plaza, is also listed for sale as part of efforts by some senators to save taxpayer dollars. Officials describe the Robert C. Weaver Federal Building, a distinctive curved structure, as “underutilized.”
Turner believes this transition will free up hundreds of millions in taxpayer savings and address ongoing health concerns affecting L’Enfant staff.
He mentioned, “It’s time to move to a facility that prioritizes the well-being of HUD employees and embodies the passion and excellence of our team.” Additionally, he expressed that current issues at the L’Enfant headquarters, like health hazards, leaks, and structural failures, have been an unnecessary drain on taxpayer funds.
Turner, a former Washington Redskins cornerback, noted that the relocation aligns with President Trump’s broader vision of a “new American golden age.”
Youngkin also expressed enthusiasm for bringing HUD to Virginia. He stated, “Virginia is the ideal location for the headquarters. We are thrilled to welcome the Department of Housing and Urban Development and its more than 2,700 office-based employees to one of America’s best states.”
As part of the plan to relocate federal workers, Youngkin had faced some criticism regarding the administration’s stance. The new headquarters is conveniently located just a few stops away from downtown D.C. on the metro’s yellow line.
He emphasized the ongoing transformation of the federal government to enhance service delivery, praising Virginia as a center for both public and private sector leadership. “We’re grateful for the trust HUD leadership has placed in us and are dedicated to supporting their vital national mission,” he added.
Michael Peters, commissioner for the General Services Administration, commended the move to Virginia. He stated it reflects a commitment to financial responsibility and mission effectiveness.
Recent investments in the Weaver building have reached $90 million over the last 15 years, covering essential repairs. Meanwhile, HUD anticipates a strong interest from the private sector at its new location, which is situated near popular destinations like the Smithsonian and the National Mall.
Issues like mold and asbestos have had a lasting impact on the current building, highlighting the need for change. The agency reported that the HUD’s operational efficiency could significantly improve by reducing building space and maintenance costs.
