National Science Foundation headquarter to accommodate HUD; no arrangements made yet for NSF staff reassignment
The National Science Foundation (NSF) employees gathered in a room ahead of a press conference, as the news of HUD's intention to move into their current headquarters in Washington, D.C., began to unfold. The Robert C. Weaver Federal Building, home to both NSF and HUD, has over $500 million in deferred maintenance and modernization needs, making the prospect of the move a contentious issue.
In April, HUD and the General Services Administration (GSA) announced that they would be listing the department's current headquarters for sale. Arlington, Alexandria, and other nearby cities in Northern Virginia are being considered for the potential relocation of the NSF headquarters.
The press conference was initially set up in the wrong location and was subsequently moved to a more secluded space. As the relocation plans were discussed, NSF employees could be heard booing and chanting "N-S-F!" in protest.
The HUD secretary, Ben Carson, emphasized that the move is about the posterity and future of HUD, not just for the current workforce, but for those coming behind. He stated that the move signifies his prioritization of health, safety, and well-being for HUD's workforce, who have been working in potentially unsafe conditions.
The relocation plans for NSF employees include an executive suite for the HUD secretary, the construction of an executive dining room, and a potential gym for the secretary and his family. These plans have sparked criticism from the American Federation of Government Employees Local 3403, who argue against the disproportionate allocation of resources.
Despite the controversy, Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has lobbied HUD to relocate its 2,700 HQ employees to Virginia. Governor Youngkin still wants NSF to stay in the northern part of Virginia, expressing concern about the potential disruption and economic impact of the move.
Officials are currently evaluating buildings in close proximity to minimize disruption, and no decision has been made regarding where NSF employees will be relocated. The timing of the transition is still being worked out, but it is clear that the move will have significant implications for both HUD and NSF employees.
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