Federal pilot would sell unused government properties below market value

What does this do?

HR 9011 creates a five-year pilot program under GSA to sell or transfer unused federal buildings and land, potentially below market value, to buyers who commit to redeveloping them for community purposes such as affordable housing, health clinics, childcare centers, schools, or job-creating businesses. Buyers must submit a redevelopment plan and begin construction within five years or the government may reclaim the property. A separate HUD grant program would fund redevelopment costs including planning, pollution cleanup, demolition, construction, and infrastructure.

Who does it affect?

Priority for property transfers and grants goes to nonprofit organizations, local governments, tribal governments, public housing agencies, and community land trusts, particularly those serving low-income or historically underserved areas. Residents living near currently unused or abandoned federal properties are also directly affected.

Why does it matter?

Communities with idle federal land nearby could see those sites converted into housing or public facilities instead of remaining vacant. After the five-year pilot concludes, GSA must report to Congress on the program's results, which could influence whether the approach continues or expands.

What does it cost, and who pays?

• HUD grants fund redevelopment work
• Covers cleanup, demolition, construction
• No total funding amount specified

Where does it stand?