Foreword
The U.S. General Services Administration's (GSA) Capital Program presents a uniquely
powerful set of opportunities and responsibilities. The Capital Program helps to shape
our nation's federal legacy by creating venues for effective public service and by forging
the physical symbols of our federal government in communities nationwide.
Our public buildings symbolize the enduring form of American government. Structures
as diverse as new courthouses, IRS district offices, and frontier border stations are
monuments to the vision, leadership, and commitment of the nation. In turn, these
public buildings contribute to the shape and definition of their communities. The
Program shapes this legacy through the critical decisions that we make at the very
beginning of every project.
Certainly, this legacy becomes obvious during the construction process--as sites are
prepared and as steel rises from the ground--and during the occupancy process--
as employees move into their new offices. Of course, it remains visible every time the
public arrives at the door and enters a place where national government meets local
community. The brick, the stone, the glass and steel, the hustle and bustle to and
from these buildings--all of these are clear messages about the federal government's
role in everyday life.
It is equally clear that our planning studies, decisions, and strategies during project
development shape these buildings and this legacy as much as the physical materials.
With so much at stake and with such tremendous opportunities in our Capital
Program, it is my hope that this Guide will assist each of us as we continue to strive
for excellence in every federal project.
F. Joseph Moravec
Commissioner of the Public Buildings Service
U.S. General Services Administration
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