USDA takes steps to close Washington buildings as part of reorganization

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has taken steps to close the South Building and Braddock Place at its Washington headquarters and move staff from those buildings elsewhere as part of its reorganization plan.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said on February 25 that more than 85% of the South Building is unoccupied and there is a backlog of US$1.6 billion in deferred maintenance. The South Building will be turned over to its landlord, the General Services Administration, which may sell the building.