In an effort to strengthen its ties with regulators, nationalpolicy makers and member companies, the American Gas Association(AGA) announced plans last week to move its headquarters next Marchfrom Arlington, VA, to downtown Washington, D.C. The associationwill take up residence on the fourth floor of the Hall of the Statebuilding’s south tower at 400 N. Capitol Street, which is twoblocks away from the Capitol building and four blocks from FERC.

“Our members believe that advocacy is the most important missionof the American Gas Association,” said David Parker, A.G.A.president and CEO. “I can think of no better way to align thatmission with our day-to-day activities than by moving closer to thepolicy makers who help to guide our industry.”

Saving on rent also is a plus. AGA said it plans to lease about35,000 square feet, 19,000 square feet less than its currentresidence at 1515 Wilson Boulevard in Arlington, VA, which wasconsidered too big and overpriced. The association occupied fivefloors in the Arlington building but because of downsizing over thepast few years as much as 50% of the offices on some of thosefloors were vacant. Despite the improved location of its newheadquarters, the smaller office space is expected to save theassociation about $100,000/year, a spokeswoman said.

Rocco Canonica

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