DHS’s new headquarters campus at the site of the former St. Elizabeth’s hospital complex in Washington, D.C. was officially opened during a July 29 ribbon-cutting ceremony at a newly constructed Coast Guard headquarters building.
“Today, we take a major step forward in making our ‘One DHS’ vision a reality," said soon-to-retire DHS secretary Janet Napolitano, adding, “Consolidating our facilities will increase efficiency and communication, while enhancing the department’s prevention, response and recovery capabilities."
GSA noted that the ceremony completes the first phase consisting of a 1.2 million square foot Coast Guard headquarters, a 2,000-car parking garage, perimeter security, the renovation of several historic buildings, and infrastructure improvements throughout the campus.
It said DHS is planning to consolidate over 35 office locations in the Washington area, expected to increase the operational efficiency of the sprawling department through closer proximity of its components.
The U.S. Coast Guard is scheduled to begin moving the first of some 3,700 military members and civilian employees currently housed in facilities along the Anacostia River in nearby Buzzard Point.
