[Federal Register Volume 62, Number 152 (Thursday, August 7, 1997)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 42444-42456]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 97-20650]


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GENERAL SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

41 CFR Part 101-16

RIN 3090-AF95


Governmentwide Real Property Policy

AGENCY: Office of Governmentwide Policy, General Services 
Administration.

ACTION: Proposed rule.

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SUMMARY: The proposed rule describes the current real property policies 
applicable to GSA and Federal agencies to whom GSA real property 
operations have been delegated. The policies contained in this proposed 
rule have been separated from their procedural components and reflect 
the way that real property operations are currently conducted. This 
regulation, once finalized, will be located in the Federal Property 
Management Regulations (FPMR), Part 101-16, entitled ``Governmentwide 
Real Property Policy.''

DATES: Comments must be received on or before October 6, 1997.

ADDRESSES: Written comments should be sent to the General Services 
Administration, Office of Governmentwide Policy, Office of Real 
Property, Real Property Policy Division (MPR), Washington, DC 20405.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Stanley C. Langfeld, Director, Real 
Property Policy Division, at (202) 501-1737.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The General Services Administration (GSA) 
has determined that this rule is not a significant regulatory action 
for the purposes of Executive Order 12866.
    This rule is not required to be published in the Federal Register 
for notice and comment. Therefore, the Regulatory Flexibility Act does 
not apply.
    The Paperwork Reduction Act does not apply to this action because 
the proposed changes to the Federal Property Management Regulations do 
not impose reporting, recordkeeping or information collection 
requirements which require the approval of the Office of Management and 
Budget pursuant to 44 U.S.C. Secs.  3501 et seq.

List of Subjects in 41 CFR Part 101-16

    Federal buildings and facilities, Government real property 
management.

    Therefore, it is proposed that 41 CFR Part 101-16 be added to read 
as follows:

PART 101-16--GOVERNMENTWIDE REAL PROPERTY POLICY

Sec.

Subpart 101-16.1--General

101-16.100 Philosophy and scope of part.
101-16.101 Definitions.
101-16.102 Applicability.
101-16.103 Basic authority.
101-16.104 Legislative and executive impacts.
101-16.105 Policy implementation.

[[Page 42445]]

Subpart 101-16.2--Delegation of Authority

101-16.200 Basic policy.
101-16.201 Types of delegations.

Subpart 101-16.3--Real Estate

101-16.300 Basic policy.
101-16.301 Program-specific authority.
101-16.302 Real estate and related services.

Subpart 101-16.4--Facility Management

101-16.400 Basic policy.
101-16.401 Program-specific authority.
101-16.402 Occupancy services.
101-16.403 Asset services.

Subpart 101-16.5--Real Property Disposal

101-16.500 Basic policy.
101-16.501 Program-specific authority.
101-16.502 Real property disposal services.

Subpart 101-16.6--Design and Construction

101-16.600 Basic policy.
101-16.601 Program-specific authority.
101-16.602 Design and construction services.

Subpart 101-16.7--Art-in-Architecture

101-16.700  Basic policy.
101-16.701  Art-in-architecture services.

Subpart 101-16.8--Historic Preservation

101-16.800  Basic policy.
101-16.801  Program-specific authority.
101-16.802  Historic preservation services.

Subpart 101-16.9--Assignment and Utilization of Space

101-16.900  Basic policy.
101-16.901  Program-specific authority.
101-16.902  Assignment and utilization services.
101-16.903  Location of space.

Subpart 101-16.10--Safety and Environmental Management

101-16.1000  Basic policy.
101-16.1001  Program-specific authority.
101-16.1002  Occupancy services.
101-16.1003  Federal construction and lease construction projects.

Subpart 101-16.11--Security

101-16.1100  Basic policy.
101-16.1101  Program-specific authority.
101-16.1102  Law enforcement.
101-16.1103  Security services.

Subpart 101-16.12--Public Utilities

101-16.1200  Basic policy.
101-16.1201  Program-specific authority.
101-16.1202  Public utilities services.

Subpart 101-16.13--Reserved

    Authority: Sec. 205(c), 63 Stat. 390, 40 U.S.C.Sec. 486(c)

Subpart 101-16.1  General


Sec. 101-16.100  Philosophy and scope of part.

    (a) This part contains the applicable Governmentwide real property 
policies for Federal agencies operating pursuant to the authority of 
the Administrator of General Services, including the GSA/PBS business 
lines.

[The deviation language in the following sentence is proposed, subject 
to the revision of Sec. 101-1.110]

GSA and Federal agencies operating under the authority of the 
Administrator of General Services must comply with the policy 
statements in this part, unless it is determined to be in the 
Government's best interest not to comply with them and there is no 
conflict with applicable laws and Executive orders. These policies 
cover the delivery, management, utilization and disposal of real 
property by Federal agencies that initiate and have decision-making 
authority over actions for real property services. These Governmentwide 
policies reflect a restatement of existing policies without their 
procedural, how-to components. They articulate the policy 
considerations concerning the manner in which Federal agencies 
currently conduct their real property business. In the future, GSA's 
Office of Governmentwide Policy will review these policies and make 
necessary adjustments to ensure that they optimize the performance of 
the Federal Government's real property portfolio. The policies stated 
in this part are derived from applicable laws and Executive orders. 
However, in the event a specific policy is not stated for a given real 
property function, or for any aspect of a function, all real property 
functions must be conducted in accordance with the provisions of 
applicable laws and Executive orders.
    (b) The real property policies presented in this part are divided 
into subparts covering the following functional areas: delegation of 
authority, real estate, facility management, real property disposal, 
design and construction, art-in-architecture, historic preservation, 
assignment and utilization of space, safety and environmental 
management, security, and public utilities.
    (c) The policy statements contained in this part are intended to 
apply to the FPMR Subchapters D, Public Buildings and Space, and H, 
Utilization and Disposal. To the extent that any statements of policy 
elsewhere in Subchapters D and H could be construed as inconsistent 
with the policy prescribed by this part, the policy statements in this 
part are controlling.


Sec. 101-16.101  Definitions.

    (a) Business line. An organizational component of GSA/PBS charged 
with the management, execution, and/or oversight of its assigned real 
property-related duties and responsibilities. Within PBS the business 
lines include the Offices of Property Acquisition and Realty Services, 
Property Development, Federal Protective Service, Property Disposal, 
Property Management, and Portfolio Management. These business lines are 
also real property services providers.
    (b) Federal Government real property services provider. A GSA/PBS 
organizational component, or other Federal Government entity operating 
pursuant to the authority of the Administrator of General Services, 
which provides real property services to Federal agencies and/or 
internal GSA customers. This definition also includes private sector 
firms under contract with Federal agencies that are engaged in the 
delivery of real property services to Federal agencies.
    (c) Federal agency. Any executive agency or any establishment in 
the legislative or judicial branch of the Government (except the 
Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Architect of the Capitol 
and any activities under his direction).


Sec. 101-16.102  Applicability.

    Those Federal agencies that initiate and have decision-making 
authority over actions for real property services from GSA under the 
authority of the Administrator of General Services, are accountable for 
compliance with the policies in this part.


Sec. 101-16.103   Basic authority.

    The basic authorities underlying these Governmentwide real property 
policies include, but are not limited to, the Federal Property and 
Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended, (40 U.S.C. 471 et 
seq.); the Public Buildings Act of 1959, as amended, (40 U.S.C. 601-
619); Reorganization Plan No. 18 of 1950 (40 U.S.C. 490 note); and 
other applicable provisions of law, Executive Orders, and policies of 
the Office of Management and Budget.


Sec. 101-16.104  Legislative and executive impacts.

    The following non-inclusive listing of legal provisions and 
statutory authorities influence specific aspects of the Governmentwide 
real property policies and programs:
    (a) Federal Property Management Regulations (FPMR, 41 CFR Chapter

[[Page 42446]]

101), specifically Subchapter D--Public Buildings and Space, Parts 101-
17--Assignment and Utilization of Space; 101-18--Acquisition of Real 
Property; 101-19--Construction and Alteration of Public Buildings; 101-
20--Management of Buildings and Grounds, and Subchapter H--Utilization 
and Disposal, Part 101-47--Utilization and Disposal of Real Property.
    (b) Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as 
amended (40 U.S.C. 471 et seq.). Among other things, this Act 
establishes the Federal Buildings Fund (FBF) and provides the 
Administrator of General Services with an important source of real 
property related authority, such as the authority to charge anyone 
furnished space or services at rates which approximate commercial 
charges for comparable space and services, authority for supervision 
and direction over the disposition of surplus property, authority for 
entering into leases not exceeding 20 years, and assigning and 
reassigning space in Government-owned and leased buildings to executive 
agencies.
    (c) Public Buildings Act of 1959, as amended, (40 U.S.C. 601-619). 
Provides the Administrator with, among other things, the exclusive 
authority to construct public buildings; the authority to acquire any 
building and its site by purchase, condemnation, donation, exchange, or 
otherwise; the authority to alter any public building and to acquire 
such lands as may be necessary to carry out such alteration; the 
authority to acquire such lands or interests in lands for use as sites, 
or additions to sites, for public buildings authorized to be 
constructed or altered under this Act by purchase, condemnation, 
donation, exchange, or otherwise. In addition, this Act establishes a 
prospectus threshold, applicable to GSA and Federal agencies operating 
under the authority of the Administrator of General Services, for the 
construction, alteration, purchase, and acquisition of any building to 
be used as a public building; and establishes a prospectus threshold to 
lease any space for use for public purposes. Such projects require an 
approved resolution by the Senate and the House of Representatives if 
the dollar value exceeds the prospectus threshold. In order to obtain 
this approved resolution, prospectuses for such projects must be 
submitted to GSA; and the Administrator of General Services will 
transmit the proposed prospectuses to Congress for consideration by the 
Senate and the House of Representatives.
    (d) The Architectural Barriers Act of 1968 (42 U.S.C. 4151-4157). 
Requires facilities be provided to ensure ready access for handicapped 
persons to public buildings and certain interior spaces.
    (e) The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 
et seq.). Requires consideration of environmental factors in the 
decision-making process for major Federal actions.
    (f) Executive Order 12072--Federal Space Management. Requires 
Federal agencies to give first consideration to the Centralized 
Community Business Area (CBA) when locating Federal facilities in urban 
areas.
    (g) The Randolph-Sheppard Act, as amended, (20 U.S.C. 107-107f). 
Requires that blind persons licensed under the provisions of the Act be 
authorized to operate vending facilities on any Federal property, 
including leased buildings. Federal agencies are obligated to acquire 
space in buildings with suitable areas for vending facilities.
    (h) Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (29 U.S.C. 653). 
Requires Federal agencies to provide safe and healthful places and 
conditions of employment.
    (i) Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition 
Policies Act of 1970 (42 U.S.C. 4651-4655). Requires Federal agencies 
to treat all property owners and other affected persons in a fair and 
equitable manner, and to provide relocation services and benefits to 
persons displaced by Federal agencies' acquisition of their real 
property.
    (j) Executive Order 11738--Providing for Administration of the 
Clean Air Act and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act with respect 
to Federal Contracts, Grants, or Loans. Requires Federal agencies 
having authority to enter into contracts to conduct its acquisitions in 
a manner that will result in effective enforcement of the Clean Air Act 
and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.
    (k) Small Business Act, as amended (15 U.S.C. 631 et seq.). 
Requires a positive effort by Federal contractors to place subcontracts 
with small and small disadvantaged business concerns.
    (l) Executive Order 11988--Floodplain Management. Requires that 
each agency shall provide leadership and shall take action to reduce 
the risk of flood loss, to minimize the impact of floods on human 
safety, health and welfare, and to restore and preserve the natural and 
beneficial values served by floodplains in carrying out its 
responsibilities for acquiring, managing, and disposing of Federal 
lands and facilities; providing federally undertaken, financed, or 
assisted construction and improvements; and conducting Federal 
activities and programs affecting land use. Each agency has the 
responsibility to evaluate the potential effects of any actions it may 
take in a floodplain; to ensure that its planning programs and budget 
requests reflect consideration of flood hazards and floodplain 
management; and to prescribe procedures to implement the polices and 
requirements of this Executive Order.
    (m) Executive Order 11990--Protection of Wetlands. Requires that 
each agency shall provide leadership and shall take action to minimize 
the destruction, loss or degradation of wetlands, and to preserve and 
enhance the natural and beneficial values of wetlands in carrying out 
its responsibilities for acquiring, managing, and disposing of Federal 
lands and facilities; providing federally undertaken, financed, or 
assisted construction and improvements; and conducting Federal 
activities and programs affecting land use. As implemented by GSA, the 
construction, purchase or lease of space in buildings located within a 
base floodplain or wetlands area is generally precluded.
    (n) Executive Order 12003--Relating to Energy Policy and 
Conservation. Requires buildings constructed for Government lease to 
meet certain energy consumption design specifications.
    (o) Executive Order 12512--Federal Real Property Management. 
Authorizes the Administrator to provide Governmentwide policy oversight 
and guidance for Federal real property management. This Executive Order 
requires, among other things, all executive departments and agencies to 
establish internal policies and systems of accountability that ensure 
effective use of real property in support of mission-related 
activities, consistent with Federal policies regarding the acquisition, 
management, and disposal of such assets. All such agencies shall also 
develop annual real property management improvement plans that include 
clear and concise goals and objectives related to all aspects of real 
property management, and identify sales, work space management, 
productivity, and excess property targets.
    (p) Stewart B. McKinney Homeless Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 11411-
11412). Requires Federal agencies to make available surplus real 
property to homeless organizations.
    (q) National Historic Preservation Act (16 U.S.C. 470 et seq.). 
Requires Federal agencies to take into account the effect of any 
Federal undertaking on any property in or eligible for listing in the 
National Register of Historic Places; and

[[Page 42447]]

to use historic properties under Federal control prior to acquiring 
other real property for Federal use.
    (r) Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and 
Liability Act of 1980 (CERCLA), as amended (42 U.S.C. 9601 et seq.). 
Provides for liability, compensation, cleanup and emergency response 
for hazardous substances released into the environment, and the cleanup 
of hazardous waste disposal sites.
    (s) Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986, as 
amended (42 U.S.C. 9601-9675). Extends and amends CERCLA, paragraph (r) 
of this section.
    (t) Protection of Public Property Act (40 U.S.C. 318-318d). Gives 
the Administrator authority to make rules and regulations governing 
property under control of GSA, and to appoint uniformed and non-
uniformed special police.
    (u) Executive Order 12196--Occupational Safety and Health Programs 
for Federal Employees. Requires Federal agencies to establish and 
maintain occupational safety and health programs for Federal employees.
    (v) Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended (Pub. L. 93-112, 387 
Stat. 355). Requires Federal agencies to ensure compliance with 
standards set by GSA, DOD and HUD pursuant to the Architectural 
Barriers Act of 1968.
    (w) Public Buildings Amendments of 1988 (Pub. L. 100-678, 102 Stat. 
4049). Provides, among other things, the Administrator with authority 
to determine the extent to which a building constructed by GSA complies 
with one of the nationally recognized model building codes. Federal 
agencies may not lease any space to accommodate computer and 
telecommunications operations; secure or sensitive activities related 
to the national defense or security; or a permanent courtroom, judicial 
chamber, or administrative office for any United States court, if the 
average rental cost of leasing such space would exceed the prospectus 
threshold. Federal agencies may lease such space only if the 
Administrator first determines that leasing such space is necessary to 
meet requirements which cannot be met in public buildings and submits 
such reasons to the Committee on Environment and Public Works of the 
Senate and the Committee on Public Works and Transportation of the 
House of Representatives.
    (x) Federal Power Act (16 U.S.C. 791a et seq.). Regulates power 
industry and appoints the Federal Power Commission.
    (y) Clean Air Act of 1963 (42 U.S.C. 7401 et seq.). Requires the 
utilization in Federal air control programs of all available and 
appropriate facilities and resources within the Federal Government for 
the prevention and abatement of air pollution.
    (1) Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978 (15 U.S.C. 3301 et seq.). 
Regulates natural gas supplies, pricing and related issues.
    (2) Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978, as amended 
(Pub. L. 95-617, 92 Stat. 3117). Provides for the conservation, 
distribution, and development of electric, hydro-electric, natural gas 
and crude oil energy resources.
    (3) Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 1978, as amended 
(Pub. L. 95-620, 92 Stat. 3289). To decrease petroleum importation and 
increase capability to use indigenous energy resources, among other 
things.
    (4) Rural Development Act of 1972 (Pub. L. 92-419, 86 Stat. 657). 
Provides for improving the economy and living conditions in rural 
America.
    (5) Energy Policy Act of 1992 (Pub. L. 102-486, 106 Stat. 2776). 
Provides for increased energy efficiency.
    (6) Executive Order 12902--Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation 
at Federal Facilities. Requires, among other things, each executive 
agency to develop energy consumption reduction goals.
    (7) Executive Order 12873--Federal Acquisition, Recycling, and 
Waste Prevention. Requires, among other things, each executive agency 
to incorporate waste prevention and recycling in its daily operations.
    (8) Executive Order 12411--Government Work Space Management 
Reforms. Requires, among other things, the heads of all Federal 
executive agencies to establish programs to reduce the amount of 
workspace, used or held, to that amount which is essential for known 
agency missions; to produce and maintain a total inventory of work 
space and related furnishings and declare excess to the Administrator 
of General Services all such holdings that are not necessary to satisfy 
existing or known and verified planned programs; and ensure that the 
amount of office space used by each employee of the agency, or others 
using agency-controlled space, is held to the minimum necessary to 
accomplish the task that must be performed.
    (9) Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Pub. L. 101-336, 104 
Stat. 327). Provides, among other things, accessibility requirements on 
employment, State and local government services, buildings and 
facilities.
    (10) Child care services for Federal employees in Federal buildings 
(40 U.S.C. 490b). Provides Federal agencies with the authority to allot 
space in Federal buildings to individuals or entities who will provide 
child care services to Federal employees.
    (11) Executive Order 13006--Locating Federal Facilities on Historic 
Properties in our Nation's Central Cities. When operationally 
appropriate and economically prudent, and subject to the requirements 
of Section 601 of Title VI of the Rural Development Act of 1972, as 
amended, (42 U.S.C. 3122), and Executive Order 12072, when locating 
Federal facilities, Federal agencies shall give first consideration to 
historic properties within historic districts. If no such property is 
suitable, then Federal agencies shall consider other developed or 
undeveloped sites within historic districts. Federal agencies shall 
then consider historic properties outside of historic districts, if no 
suitable site within a district exists.
    (12) Act of December 10, 1941 (40 U.S.C. 291). Requires Federal 
agencies to admit seeing-eye dogs or other guide dogs accompanied by 
their blind masters to any building or other property owned or 
controlled by the United States.
    (13) Act of July 1, 1898 (40 U.S.C. 285). Places all courthouses, 
customhouses, appraiser's stores, barge offices, and other public 
buildings outside of the District of Columbia and outside of military 
reservations under the exclusive jurisdiction and control and in the 
custody of the Administrator of General Services.
    (14) The Act of June 23, 1913 (40 U.S.C. 281). Makes available 
appropriations for furniture and repairs of furniture whenever the 
Administrator of General Services is authorized to secure temporary 
quarters for the use of Government officials pending the repair and/or 
alteration of any public building under the control of the 
Administrator of General Services.
    (15) Act of May 14, 1948 (40 U.S.C. 130). Places the operation, 
maintenance, and repair of the completed building for the use of the 
United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia and the 
United States District Court for the District of Columbia under the 
control of the Administrator of General Services. The allocation of 
space therein shall be vested in the chief judge of the United States 
Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia and the chief judge of 
the United States District Court for the District of Columbia.
    (16) Federal Urban Land-Use Act (40 U.S.C. 531-535). Promotes more 
harmonious intergovernmental relations

[[Page 42448]]

and encourages sound planning, zoning, and land use practices by 
prescribing uniform policies and procedures in order that urban land 
transactions entered into for the General Services Administration or on 
behalf of other Federal agencies be consistent with zoning and land-use 
practices and be made in accordance with planning and development 
objectives of the local governments and local planning agencies 
concerned.
    (17) Section 901(b) of the Agriculture Act of 1970, 84 Stat. 1383, 
as amended by section 601 of Title VI the Rural Development Act of 
1972, 86 Stat. 674 (42 U.S.C. 3122(b)). Section 601 of Title VI of the 
Rural Development Act of 1972 amends Section 901(b) of the Agricultural 
Act of 1970. Section 601 directs the heads of all executive departments 
and agencies of the Government to establish and maintain departmental 
policies and procedures giving first priority to the location of new 
offices and other facilities in rural areas as defined in the private 
business enterprise exception in Section 306(a)(7) of the Consolidated 
Farmers Home Administration Act of 1961, as amended (7 U.S.C. 1926).
    (18) Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976 (40 U.S.C. 601a, 
612a). Requires the Administrator to acquire and utilize space in 
suitable buildings of historic, architectural, or cultural 
significance, if feasible; to encourage the location of commercial, 
cultural, educational, and recreational facilities and activities 
within public buildings; to encourage public access and pedestrian 
traffic into and through public buildings; to encourage the public use 
of public buildings for cultural, educational, and recreational 
activities.
    (19) Executive Order 11507--Prevention, Control, and Abatement of 
Air and Water Pollution at Federal Facilities. Requires that the 
Federal Government, in the design, operation, and maintenance of its 
facilities, provide leadership in the nationwide effort to protect and 
enhance the quality of our air and water resources.
    (20) Executive Order 11508--Providing for the Identification of 
Unneeded Federal Real Property. Establishes a uniform policy for 
Executive branch concerning the identification of excess real property 
holdings and establishes uniform procedures to insure the prompt 
identification and release by executive agencies of real property 
holdings that are no longer essential to their activities and 
responsibilities.
    (21) Fair Housing Act, as amended (42 U.S.C. 3601 et seq.). 
Provides for fair housing practices and prohibits discrimination in the 
sale or rental of housing.
    (22) Federal Water Pollution Control Act (33 U.S.C. 1251 et seq.). 
Requires, among other things, that all agencies of the executive, 
legislative, and judicial branches of the Federal Government having 
jurisdiction over any property or facility, or engaged in any activity 
resulting in the discharge or runoff of pollutants, must comply with 
all Federal, State, interstate, and local requirements, administrative 
authority, and process and sanctions respecting the control and 
abatement of water pollution.
    (23) Office of Management and Budget Circular A-95 Revised. 
Furnishes guidance to Federal agencies for cooperation with state and 
local governments in the evaluation, review, and coordination of 
Federal and federally assisted programs and projects.
    (24) Executive Order 11724--Federal Property Council. Directs the 
Administrator of General Services to conduct surveys of real property 
holdings of executive agencies on a continuing basis to identify 
properties which are not utilized, are underutilized, or are not being 
put to their optimum use. The Administrator of General Services shall 
also make reports as to which of these properties (not utilized, 
underutilized, not being put to optimum use) he recommends should be 
reported as excess property.
    (25) Executive Order 12088--Federal Compliance with Pollution 
Control Standards. Requires the head of each Executive agency to ensure 
that all necessary actions are taken for the prevention, control, and 
abatement of environmental pollution with respect to Federal facilities 
and activities. This will entail responsibility for compliance with 
applicable pollution control standards, coordination with other 
agencies, and the submission of an annual plan for the control of 
environmental pollution.
    (26) Executive Order 13005--Empowerment Contracting. Requires the 
Secretary of Commerce to develop policies and procedures to ensure that 
agencies grant qualified large businesses and qualified small 
businesses appropriate incentives to encourage businesses in areas of 
general economic distress, in order to strengthen the economy and to 
improve the efficiency of the Federal procurement system by encouraging 
business development that expands the industrial base and increases 
competition.
    (27) Act of April 28, 1902 (40 U.S.C. 19). Requires the 
Administrator of General Services to have charge of the public 
buildings and grounds in the District of Columbia, and to evict any 
person that is in unlawful occupation of any portion of these lands.
    (28) Executive Order 12699--Seismic Safety of Federal and Federally 
Assisted or Regulated New Building Construction. Requires Federal 
agencies responsible for the design and construction of each new 
Federal building and/or for the construction and lease of a new 
building for Federal use to ensure that the building is designed and 
constructed in accord with appropriate seismic design and construction 
standards.
    (29) Executive Order 11593--Protection and Enhancement of the 
Cultural Environment. Requires Federal Agencies to direct their 
policies, plans and programs in such a way that federally owned sites, 
structures, and objects of historical, archaeological or archaeological 
significance are preserved, restored and maintained.


Sec. 101-16.105  Policy implementation.

    Each Federal Government real property services provider shall 
develop its operating procedures in conformance with the policies 
presented in this part for each functional area of specialization 
outlined in Sec. 101-16.100(b). Also, Federal agencies shall ensure 
that the provisions of any contract with private sector real property 
services providers conform to the real property policy requirements of 
this part.

Subpart 101-16.2--Delegation of Authority


Sec. 101-16.200  Basic policy.

    The Administrator of General Services is authorized to delegate and 
to authorize successive redelegations of the real property functions 
vested in the Administrator to any other Federal agency. The guiding 
principle in the delegation decision is whether the delegation is in 
the best interest of the Government, including but not limited to 
whether a delegation would be cost effective for the Government in the 
delivery of space. Federal agencies must conduct their real property 
functions within the parameters described within each specific 
delegation of authority document, and Federal agencies may only 
exercise the authority of the Administrator that is specifically 
provided within the written delegation of authority document. Specific 
guidance on delegations of authority is found in Secs. 101-17.202-2, 
101-18.104-1(a), 101-19.501, and 101-20.106-1 of this subchapter.

    Note: The ``Can't Beat GSA Leasing Program'' provides Federal 
agencies with the

[[Page 42449]]

option to either use GSA when a new lease is necessary or conduct 
the lease procurement themselves. This delegation includes some 
conditions which agencies must meet when the procurement is not 
performed by GSA. These conditions include training in lease 
contracting and reporting data to GSA.


Sec. 101-16.201  Types of delegations.

    Delegations of authority cover the following areas of 
responsibility:
    (a) Real estate leasing. (1) Section 101-18.104 of this subchapter 
describes the existing types of delegations for lease acquisitions.
    (2) General purpose space. The Administrator of GSA has issued a 
standing delegation of authority to the heads of all Federal agencies 
to accomplish all functions relating to leasing of general purpose 
space for terms of up to 20 years regardless of geographic location, 
subject to the conditions in the written delegation of authority 
instrument.
    (3) Administrative contracting officer (ACO) delegations. An ACO, 
in addition to lease management authority, has limited contracting 
officer authority to perform such duties as paying and withholding 
lessor rent and modifying lease provisions that do not change the lease 
term length or the amount of square footage under lease.
    When a Federal agency elects not to exercise the delegation of 
authority for general purpose space mentioned in paragraph (a) of this 
section, GSA may consider granting this ACO delegation when all of the 
following conditions exist:
    (i) The Federal agency occupies 90 percent of the leased space or 
the Federal agency has the written concurrence of 100% of rent-paying 
occupants covered under the lease; and
    (ii) The Federal agency has the technical capability to perform the 
leasing function.
    (b) Facility management. Delegates authority to Federal agencies to 
accomplish functions concerned with the day-to-day operation and 
management of buildings, to accomplish individual repair and alteration 
projects, and to accomplish functions associated with lease management. 
The types of facility management delegations include the following:
    (1) Delegation of real property management and operation. Delegates 
authority to Federal agencies to accomplish functions concerned with 
the day-to-day operation and management of buildings. These functions 
include building operations, maintenance, recurring repairs, 
alterations, historic preservation, concessions, and energy management 
of specified buildings subject to the conditions stated in the 
delegation instrument.
    (i) Delegates real property management and operation authority when 
all of the following conditions exist:
    (A) The Federal agency occupies at least 90 percent of the space in 
the Government controlled facility or the Federal agency has the 
concurrence of 100 percent of rent paying occupants; and
    (B) The Federal agency satisfactorily demonstrates the ability to 
perform the delegated real property management and operation 
responsibilities.
    (2) Individual repair and alteration project delegation. Delegates 
to Federal agencies the authority to perform individual repair and 
alterations projects. Repair and alterations authority is delegated to 
Federal agencies for reimbursable space alteration projects up to the 
simplified acquisition threshold, in accordance with Sec. 101-20.106 of 
this subchapter. Repair and alterations authority may be delegated to 
Federal agencies for other individual alteration projects when the 
Federal agency demonstrates the ability to perform the delegated repair 
and alterations responsibility and when such a delegation will promote 
efficiency and economy.
    (3) Delegation of lease management authority (Contracting Officer 
Representative Authority). When a Federal agency elects not to exercise 
the delegation of authority for general purpose space mentioned in 
paragraph (a) of this section, GSA may delegate authority to a Federal 
agency upon request to manage the administration of one or more lease 
contracts. A delegation of lease management authority is appropriate 
when all of the following conditions exist:
    (i) The Federal agency occupies at least 90 percent of the space in 
the lease or the Federal agency has the written concurrence of 100% of 
rent-paying occupants covered under the lease; and
    (ii) The Federal agency personnel satisfactorily demonstrate the 
ability to perform the delegated lease management responsibilities.
    (c) Disposal of real property. Delegates authority to Federal 
agencies to utilize and dispose of real and related personal property 
and to grant approvals and make determinations as provided for in the 
delegation instrument. Disposal delegations to Federal agencies are 
infrequent. Delegation of disposal authority may be appropriate where 
low-value properties are involved and where the Federal agency has the 
technical expertise to perform the disposition functions. GSA may grant 
special delegations of authority to other Federal agencies for the 
utilization and disposal of certain real property through the 
procedures set forth in subpart 101-47.6.
    (d) Security. Delegates authority to Federal agencies relating to 
the protection of persons and property at the locations identified in 
the delegation instrument. Security delegations to Federal agencies are 
based upon considerations such as whether a clear and unique security 
requirement exists; whether there is a critical national security 
issue; whether the agency has an intelligence or law enforcement 
mission; and/or whether the agency can show that the current security 
contractor is ineffective.
    (e) Public utilities. Delegates authority to Federal agencies to 
negotiate and execute utility services contracts for the use and 
benefit of the delegated agency and to intervene in utility rate 
proceedings to represent the consumer interests of the Federal 
Government, subject to the conditions stated in the delegation 
instrument. The criteria that GSA uses in determining whether a 
delegation will be issued include whether the Federal agency has the 
technical expertise and adequate staffing, and whether there is an 
existing areawide contract.

Subpart 101-16.3--Real Estate


Sec. 101-16.300  Basic policy.

    Federal agencies must provide real estate and related services for 
their use in an efficient and cost effective manner, after a 
determination that suitable Government-controlled real estate is not 
available.


Sec. 101-16.301   Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Federal Property and 
Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended; Public Buildings Act 
of 1959, as amended; Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 1976; 
Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real Property Acquisition Policies 
Act of 1970, as amended; the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968; the 
Randolph-Sheppard Act, as amended; the National Environmental Policy 
Act of 1969; the National Historic Preservation Act; Executive Order 
12072, entitled ``Federal Space Management''; Executive Order 11988, 
entitled ``Floodplain Management''; Executive Order 11990, entitled 
``Protection of Wetlands;'' Executive Order 13006, entitled ``Locating 
Federal Facilities on Historic Properties in our Nation's Central 
Cities.''

[[Page 42450]]

Sec. 101-16.302  Real estate and related services.

    Federal agencies must provide real estate and related services, 
including leases, purchase options, building purchase, purchase of 
sites, condemnation, and relocation assistance. The real estate and 
related services include the following:
    (a) Leases. Federal agencies must adhere to the following policies 
when acquiring space by lease:
    (1) Federal agencies may consider leases of privately owned land 
and buildings only when needs cannot be satisfactorily met in 
Government-controlled space and:
    (i) Leasing proves to be more advantageous than the construction of 
a new or alteration of an existing Federal building.
    (ii) New construction or alteration is not warranted because 
requirements in the community are insufficient or indefinite in scope 
or duration.
    (iii) Completion of a new building within a reasonable time cannot 
be ensured.
    (2) Available space in buildings under the custody and control of 
the United States Postal Service (USPS) will be given priority 
consideration in fulfilling Federal agency space needs.
    (3) Acquisition of space by lease will be on the basis most 
favorable to the Government, with due consideration to maintenance and 
operational efficiency, and only at charges consistent with prevailing 
scales for comparable facilities in the community.
    (4) Acquisition of space by lease will be by negotiation except 
where the sealed bid procedure is required by 41 U.S.C. 253(a). Except 
as otherwise provided in 41 U.S.C. 253, full and open competition will 
be obtained among suitable locations meeting minimum Government 
requirements.
    (5) When acquiring space by lease, the provisions of (101-17.205 of 
this subchapter regarding determination of the location of Federal 
facilities must be strictly adhered to. This implements Executive Order 
12072.
    (6) When acquiring space by lease, the provisions of section 110(a) 
of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (16 U.S.C. 470), as 
amended, regarding the use of historic properties must be strictly 
adhered to.
    (7) Federal agencies may enter into lease agreements with any 
person, copartnership, corporation, or other public or private entity, 
which do not bind the Government for periods in excess of twenty years 
for each such lease agreement.
    (8) Federal agencies may not lease any space to accommodate 
computer and telecommunications operations; secure or sensitive 
activities related to the national defense or security; or a permanent 
courtroom, judicial chamber, or administrative office for any United 
States court, if the average rental cost of leasing such space would 
exceed the prospectus threshold. Federal agencies may lease such space 
only if the Administrator first determines that leasing such space is 
necessary to meet requirements which cannot be met in public buildings 
and submits such reasons to the Committee on Environment and Public 
Works of the Senate and the Committee on Public Works and 
Transportation of the House of Representatives.
    (b) Leases with purchase options. Give consideration to leasing 
with a purchase option when one or more of the following conditions 
exist:
    (1) When the purchase option offers economic and other advantages 
to the Government and is consistent with the Government's goals;
    (2) When the Government is the sole or major tenant of the 
building, and has a long-term need for the property;
    (3) When otherwise in the best interest of the Government.
    (c) Building purchase. Evaluate buildings considered for purchase 
on a case-by-case basis when one or more of the following conditions 
exist:
    (1) When it is economically more beneficial to own and manage the 
property;
    (2) When there is a long-term need for the property;
    (3) When the property is an existing building, or a building 
nearing completion, that can be purchased and occupied within a 
reasonable time.
    (4) Or when otherwise in the best interests of the Government.
    (d) Purchase of sites. Locate proposed Federal buildings on sites 
that are most advantageous to the United States. Factors that may be 
considered include, but are not limited to, whether the site will 
contribute to economy and efficiency in the construction, maintenance 
and operation of the individual building, and how the proposed site 
relates to the Government's total space needs in the community. Site 
selections must take into consideration Executive Orders 12072 and 
13006 (see Sec. 101-19.002(a) of this subchapter). In addition, 
consideration will also be given to:
    (1) Maximum utilization of Government-owned land (including excess 
land) whenever it is adequate, economically adaptable to requirements 
and properly located, where such use is consistent with the provisions 
of Executive Order 11724 of June 25, 1973 and subpart 101-47.8 of this 
chapter.
    (2) A site adjacent to or in the proximity of an existing Federal 
building which is well located and is to be retained for long-term 
occupancy.
    (3) Determine the environmental condition of proposed sites prior 
to purchase; such sites must be free from contamination, unless it is 
otherwise determined to be in the best interests of the Government to 
purchase a contaminated site.
    (4) Consider purchase options to secure the availability of a site.
    (5) Suitable sites in established civic or redevelopment centers 
which are well planned and properly financed with development initiated 
and insured.
    (6) Policies regarding the determination of the location of Federal 
facilities shall be strictly adhered to in the process of developing 
building projects.
    (e) Condemnation. Obtain the use of real property through the 
procedures set forth in subpart 101-18.2 of this subchapter.
    (f) Relocation assistance. Eligible owners and tenants of property 
purchased for use by Federal agencies must receive appropriate 
relocation assistance under the Uniform Relocation Assistance and Real 
Property Acquisition Policies Act, 42 U.S.C. 4651-4655. The 
implementing regulations are found at Sec. 105-51.005 of this chapter.

Subpart 101-16.4--Facility Management


Sec. 101-16.400  Basic policy.

    Federal agencies must manage, operate, and maintain Government-
owned and leased buildings in a manner that ensures quality space and 
services consistent with operational needs and that accomplish overall 
Government objectives. The management, operation, and maintenance of 
buildings and building systems must be cost effective, must be adequate 
to meet the agencies' missions, must meet nationally recognized 
standards, and must be at an appropriate level to maintain and preserve 
the physical plant assets, consistent with available funding.


Sec. 101-16.401  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Randolph-Sheppard Act, as 
amended; the Small Business Act, as amended; Executive Order 12902, 
entitled ``Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation at Federal 
Facilities''; and Executive Order 12873, entitled ``Federal 
Acquisition, Recycling, and Waste Prevention.''

[[Page 42451]]

Sec. 101-16.402  Occupancy services.

    Federal agencies must provide occupancy services for real property 
assets.
    (a) Federal agencies must manage, administer, and enforce the 
requirements of agreements (such as Memoranda of Understanding, etc.) 
and contracts that provide for the delivery of occupancy services.
    (b) Federal agencies must provide occupancy services which 
substantially conform to nationally recognized standards. As needed, 
Federal agencies may adopt other standards for buildings and services 
in federally controlled facilities in order to conform to statutory 
requirements and to implement cost-reduction efforts. The occupancy 
services include the following:
    (1) Building services. Federal agencies must provide building 
services such as custodial, solid waste management (including 
recycling), heating and cooling, landscaping and grounds maintenance, 
tenant alterations, minor repairs, building maintenance, integrated 
pest management, signage, parking, and snow removal, at appropriate 
levels to support Federal agency missions.
    (2) Concessions. Federal agencies must provide concessions services 
where building population supports such services and when the 
availability of existing commercial services is insufficient to meet 
Federal agency needs. Concessions services consist of services such as 
dry cleaners, gift shops, vending facilities (onsite preparation 
facilities, prepackaged facilities, sundry facilities, and vending 
machines), cafeterias, employee health units, and public pay 
telephones. See Randolph-Sheppard Act, as amended, and subpart 101-20.2 
of this subchapter.
    (3) Conservation. Federal agencies must provide programs for the 
improvement of energy and water efficiency. These programs must promote 
and maintain an effective source reduction activity (reducing 
consumption of resources such as energy, water and paper), resource 
recovery activity (obtaining materials from the waste stream that can 
be recycled into new products), and reuse activity (reusing same 
product before disposition, such as reusing unneeded memos for scratch 
paper).


Sec. 101-16.403  Asset services.

    Federal agencies must provide asset services such as repairs (in 
addition to those minor repairs identified in Sec. 101-16.402(b)(1) 
entitled ``Building services'') and alterations for real property 
assets. GSA must provide asset services such as modernizations for real 
property assets. Asset services must be accomplished to maintain 
continuity of Government operations, to provide for continued efficient 
building operations, to extend the useful life of buildings and related 
building systems, and to provide a quality workplace environment that 
enhances employee productivity.

Subpart 101-16.5--Real Property Disposal


Sec. 101-16.500  Basic policy.

    GSA must provide, in a timely, efficient, and cost effective 
manner, the full range of real estate services necessary to support the 
real property utilization and disposal needs of Federal agencies. Each 
executive landholding agency must make surveys of real property under 
its jurisdiction to identify property that is unutilized, 
underutilized, or not being put to optimum use and to ensure that 
adequate systems are in place to promote the effective utilization and 
disposal of such real property.


Sec. 101-16.501  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Federal Property and 
Administrative Services Act of 1949, as amended; the Stewart B. 
McKinney Homeless Assistance Act; Executive Order 12512, entitled 
``Federal Real Property Management;'' National Environmental Policy Act 
of 1969, as amended; National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as 
amended; Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and 
Liability Act of 1980, as amended; Superfund Amendments and 
Reauthorization Act of 1986, as amended.


Sec. 101-16.502  Real property disposal services.

    GSA must provide for real property disposal services for real 
property assets under its custody and control and for Federal agencies. 
These real property disposal services include the following:
    (a) Utilization of excess property. GSA must:
    (1) Stimulate the identification and reporting by executive 
agencies of excess real property.
    (2) Achieve the maximum utilization by executive agencies, in terms 
of economy and efficiency, of excess real property in order to minimize 
expenditures for the purchase of real property.
    (3) Provide for the transfer of excess real property among Federal 
agencies, to mixed-ownership Government corporations, and to the 
municipal government of the District of Columbia.
    (4) Resolve conflicting transfer requests that cannot be resolved 
by the involved agencies.
    (b) Surveys. Each executive agency must:
    (1) Survey real property under its control (including property 
assigned on a permit basis to other Federal agencies, or outleased to 
States, local governments, other public bodies, or private interests) 
at least annually to identify property which is not needed, 
underutilized, or not being put to optimum use. When other needs for 
the property are identified or recognized, the agency must determine 
whether continuation of the current use or another Federal or other use 
would better serve the public interest, considering both the Federal 
agency's needs and the property's location. In conducting each review, 
Federal agencies must be guided by Sec. 101-47.801(b) of this chapter, 
and other applicable General Services Administration regulations.
    (2) Maintain its inventory of real property at the absolute minimum 
consistent with economical and efficient conduct of the affairs of the 
agency.
    (3) Promptly report to GSA real property which it has determined to 
be excess.
    (c) Disposal of surplus property. Excess real property not needed 
for further Federal use must be determined by GSA as surplus to the 
needs of the Federal government and must be expeditiously made 
available for acquisition by State and local governmental units and 
nonprofit institutions or for sale by public advertising, negotiation, 
or other disposal action. Considerations regarding availability for 
public purposes based on highest and best use and estimated fair market 
value must be made by GSA on a case-by-case basis. See Sec. 101-47.202-
2(b) of this chapter for the requirements for reporting excess real 
property containing hazardous substance activity and, where hazardous 
substance activity has been identified, Sec. 101-47.304-14 for required 
information to be incorporated into Invitation for Bids/Offers to 
Purchase.
    (1) GSA may dispose of surplus real property by exchange for 
privately owned property only--
    (i) For property management considerations such as boundary 
realignment or provision of access or
    (ii) Where authorized by law, when the requesting Federal agency 
has received approval by the Office of Management and Budget and the 
appropriate oversight committees, and where the transaction offers 
substantial economic or unique program advantages

[[Page 42452]]

not otherwise obtainable by any other method of acquisition.
    (2) GSA may outlease surplus real property for non-Federal interim 
use, pending its disposition, when both of the following conditions 
exist:
    (i) The lease or permit is for a period not exceeding 1 year and is 
revocable on not to exceed 30 days' notice by the disposal agency; and
    (ii) The use and occupancy will not interfere with, delay, or 
impede the disposal of the property.
    (3) GSA, or landholding Federal agencies with the approval of GSA, 
may grant rights for non-Federal interim use of excess property 
reported to GSA, when it is determined that such interim use is not 
required for the needs of any Federal agency.
    (d) Public benefit conveyances. Based on a highest and best use 
analysis, GSA may designate surplus real property as available to State 
and local governmental bodies and certain nonprofit institutions at up 
to 100 percent public benefit discount for public benefit purposes 
including education, health, park and recreation, homeless, historic 
monument, public airport, highway, correctional, ports, and wildlife 
conservation.
    (e) Negotiated sale. GSA must obtain such competition as is 
feasible under the circumstances in all negotiations of disposals and 
contracts for disposal of surplus property.
    (1) Negotiated sales may be made only:
    (i) When the estimated fair market value of the property involved 
does not exceed $15,000;
    (ii) When bid prices after advertising therefore are not reasonable 
(either as to all or some part of the property) or have not been 
independently arrived at in open competition;
    (iii) When the character or conditions of the property or unusual 
circumstances make it impractical to advertise publicly for competitive 
bids and the fair market value of the property and other satisfactory 
terms of disposal can be obtained by negotiation;
    (iv) When the disposals will be to States, Commonwealth of Puerto 
Rico, possessions, political subdivisions thereof, or tax-supported 
agencies therein, and the estimated fair market value of the property 
and other satisfactory terms of disposal are obtained by negotiations. 
Such negotiated sales to public bodies must be limited to where a 
public benefit will result from a negotiated sale which would not be 
realized from a competitive sale disposal (Such public purposes include 
administrative offices, police stations, fire houses, and economic 
development); or
    (v) When negotiation is otherwise authorized by the Federal 
Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949 or other law, such as:
    (A) Disposals of power transmission lines for public or cooperative 
power projects.
    (B) Disposals for public airport utilization.
    (2) Negotiated sales to public agencies must include an excess 
profits clause, which usually runs for a period of 3 years, in the 
offer to purchase and the conveyance document to eliminate the 
potential for windfall profits to the public agencies.
    (3) A negotiated sale for economic development purposes means a 
transferee will develop or make substantial improvements to the 
property with the intention of re-selling or leasing the property in 
parcels to users to advance the community's economic benefit. This type 
of negotiated sale is acceptable where the expected public benefits to 
the community will be greater than the anticipated proceeds derived 
from a competitive public sale.
    (f) Public sales. Surplus property that is not disposed of by 
public benefit discount conveyance or by negotiated sale is made 
available by competitive public sale. Awards must be made on the basis 
of the Government's estimate of value, price and other factors that are 
most advantageous to the Government.
    (g) Economy Act sales. Under the Economy Act, GSA may provide sales 
services to other Federal agencies on a reimbursable basis. Even though 
these agencies have their own disposal authority, they are, in many 
instances, unable to dispose of/sell large real property inventories 
acquired through forfeiture, loan default, and drug seizures. 
Reimbursable charges must be for actual expenses and are not formulated 
to create a profit to GSA. Requests for sales services from other 
agencies under the Economy Act must not be accepted by GSA if they 
delay or otherwise impact the accomplishment of the mission objectives 
of the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act of 1949, as 
amended.
    (h) Appraisals. For all real property transactions requiring 
appraisals, GSA must in all cases obtain, as appropriate, an appraisal 
of either the fair market value or the fair annual rental value of 
property available for disposal.
    (1) Appraisals are not required when either of the following 
conditions exist:
    (i) The property is to be disposed of without monetary 
consideration, or at a fixed price. This exception shall not apply to 
disposals that take any public benefit purpose into consideration in 
fixing the sale value of the property.
    (ii) The estimated fair market value of property to be offered on a 
competitive sale basis does not exceed $50,000.
    (2) GSA must have the property appraised by experienced and 
qualified appraisers familiar with the types of property to be 
appraised.
    (3) Appraisal data required for the purposes of disposing of 
surplus property by negotiation under Sec. 101-16.502(e)(1)(iii), (iv), 
or (v)(A) must be obtained under contractual arrangements with 
experienced and qualified real estate appraisers familiar with the 
types of property to be appraised. However, GSA may authorize any other 
method of obtaining an estimate of the fair market value or the fair 
annual rental it deems proper when the cost of obtaining such data from 
a contract appraiser would be out of proportion to the expected 
recoverable value of the property, or if for any other reason employing 
a contract appraiser would not be in the best interest of the 
Government.

Subpart 101-16.6--Design and Construction


Sec. 101-16.600  Basic policy.

    GSA must provide for the highest quality of design and construction 
services for the construction of new Federal facilities and for the 
repair and alteration of existing Federal facilities in a timely, 
efficient, and cost effective manner to support the mission of Federal 
agencies. GSA must provide for Federal facilities in an architectural 
style and form which is distinguished and reflects the dignity, 
enterprise, vigor and stability of the Federal Government. GSA must 
follow national building codes that govern Federal construction to the 
maximum extent feasible, and give consideration to the requirements of 
local building codes. Federal buildings must be designed to have a long 
life expectancy, and must be able to accommodate continual changes due 
to renovations. GSA must ensure that buildings are cost effective, 
accessible to and usable by the physically handicapped, and that 
building service equipment must be designed to be accessible for 
maintenance, repair or replacement without causing significant 
disturbance in occupied space. GSA must consider ease of operation when 
selecting mechanical and electrical equipment.


Sec. 101-16.601  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Public Buildings Act of 1959;

[[Page 42453]]

Architectural Barriers Act of 1968; National Environmental Policy Act 
of 1969; National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, as amended; 
Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended; Americans with Disabilities Act 
of 1990.


Sec. 101-16.602  Design and construction services.

    GSA must provide for design and construction services for real 
property assets under its custody and control for Federal agencies. The 
design and construction services include the following:
    (a) Site planning and landscape design. The quality of GSA site 
design must be a direct extension of the building design and must make 
a positive contribution to the surrounding landscape.
    (1) GSA must consider all non procedural requirements of local 
zoning laws. GSA must consider non procedural requirements of laws 
relating to setbacks, height, historic preservation and aesthetic 
qualities of a building.
    (2) GSA must identify areas for future building expansion in the 
architectural and site design concept for all GSA buildings where an 
expansion need is identified to exist.
    (3) GSA must assure that the landscape design creates a pleasant, 
dynamic experience for occupants and visitors to its facilities and 
that it is closely coordinated with the architectural characteristics 
of the building.
    (4) GSA must comply with the requirements of the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 for each project.
    (b) Architectural and interior design. GSA must design Federal 
facilities that demonstrate distinction and quality.
    (1) Buildings must reflect the local architecture through the use 
of building form, materials, colors, or detail. Building interiors must 
express a quality of permanence similar to that of the buildings' 
exterior.
    (2) For new construction and major renovations, GSA must ensure 
that physically handicapped persons have full access to, and use of 
federally-controlled facilities in accordance with the Architectural 
Barriers Act of 1968 (Uniform Federal Accessibility Standards (UFAS)) 
or Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA accessibility 
guidelines), whichever is more stringent. For minor renovations in 
existing buildings, GSA must meet minimum UFAS requirements. A more 
detailed explanation of these standards can be found in subpart 101-
19.6 of this subchapter.
    (3) GSA must utilize metric specifications in construction where 
metrication is the accepted industry standard, and to the extent that 
such usage is economically feasible and practical.
    (4) GSA must provide for the design of security systems to protect 
Federal workers and visitors and to safeguard facilities against 
criminal activity and/or terrorist activity. Security design must 
support the continuity of government operations during civil 
disturbances, natural disasters and other emergency situations.
    (c) Engineering systems design. GSA must provide for engineering 
systems for real property assets under its custody and control for 
Federal agencies. The engineering systems include the following:
    (1) Structural engineering. GSA must have the capability to 
accommodate changing Federal agencies' requirements in the life cycle 
of Federal buildings.
    (2) Mechanical engineering. GSA must encourage the use of building 
automation systems that are cost effective and enable ease of operation 
in Federal buildings.
    (3) Electrical engineering and communications systems. GSA must 
assure that electrical and communications systems support the many 
types of equipment used in Federal buildings. These systems must 
provide ample capacity for increased requirements in the future.

Subpart 101-16.7--Art-in-Architecture


Sec. 101-16.700  Basic policy.

    The architectural character and design of Federal buildings 
occupied by Federal agencies is enhanced through the commissioning of 
works of art. GSA should incorporate fine arts as an integral part of 
the total building concept in the design of new Federal buildings, and 
in the substantial repair and alteration of existing Federal buildings, 
as appropriate. The selected fine arts, including painting, sculpture, 
and artistic work in other media, must reflect the national cultural 
heritage and emphasize the work of living American artists.


Sec. 101-16.701  Art-in-architecture services.

    GSA may provide Art-in-architecture services for real property 
assets under its custody and control. The Art-in-architecture services 
include the following:
    (a) Types of art. GSA must commission artwork that is diverse in 
style and media.
    (b) Funding. GSA funds the Art-in-architecture efforts by 
allocating to it a portion of the estimated cost of constructing or 
purchasing new Federal buildings, or of completing major repair and 
alteration of existing buildings. Funding for qualifying projects, 
including new construction, building purchases, other building 
acquisition, or prospectus-level repair and alteration projects must be 
in a range determined by the Administrator of General Services.
    (c) Community support. To the maximum extent practicable, GSA 
should seek the support and involvement of local citizens in the 
selection of appropriate artwork. GSA should collaborate with the 
artist and community to produce works of art that reflect the cultural, 
intellectual, and historic interests and values of a community.
    (d) Commissioning of art. To the maximum extent practicable, the 
commissioning and selection of art in Federal buildings should be a 
collaborative effort among GSA, the architect of the building, art 
professionals, and the local community.
    (e) Public affairs. GSA must ensure that Art-in-architecture is 
given national visibility to facilitate participation by a large and 
diverse group of artists representing a wide variety of types of 
artwork.

Subpart 101-16.8--Historic Preservation


Sec. 101-16.800  Basic policy.

    In order to protect, enhance and preserve historic and cultural 
property under its control, GSA must take into account the effects of 
its undertakings on historic and cultural properties, and give the 
Advisory Council on Historic Preservation (Advisory Council), the State 
Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO), and other consulting parties a 
reasonable opportunity to comment regarding the proposed undertakings. 
Historic and cultural properties are those which are included in, or 
eligible for inclusion in, the National Register of Historic Places 
(National Register).
    (a) GSA must solicit information from consulting parties to assist 
it in carrying out its responsibilities under historic and cultural 
preservation laws and regulations. GSA must invite the participation of 
consulting parties through its normal public notification processes.
    (b) Whenever a GSA undertaking adversely affects an historic or 
cultural property, all adverse impacts must be minimized to the extent 
that is feasible and prudent.

[[Page 42454]]

Sec. 101-16.801  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the National Historic Preservation 
Act of 1966, as amended; the Public Buildings Cooperative Use Act of 
1976; and Executive Order 13006, entitled ``Locating Federal Facilities 
on Historic Properties in our Nation's Central Cities.''


Sec. 101-16.802  Historic preservation services.

    GSA must provide historic preservation services for real property 
assets under its custody and control. The historic preservation 
services include the following:
    (a) Identification of historic properties. GSA must identify all 
National Register or National Register-eligible historic and cultural 
properties that are under its control. Properties that may be affected 
by the policies, plans, or other undertakings of GSA sponsored 
activities, must be examined for the presence of historic and cultural 
significance. If unable to reach agreement on eligibility with the 
State Historic Preservation Officer, GSA must request a determination 
of eligibility from the Keeper of the National Register (Keeper) for 
properties under its control that appear to meet the criteria of 
eligibility for inclusion in the National Register.
    (b) Nomination to the National Register. GSA must nominate to the 
National Register all properties under its control determined eligible 
for inclusion in the National Register by the Keeper.
    (c) Property under GSA control. (1) Real property. GSA must prepare 
a Historic Building Preservation Plan for each National Register or 
National Register-eligible property under its control. All reports 
must, when approved by the consulting parties, become a binding 
management plan for the property.
    (2) Direct and leased construction. GSA must investigate for the 
presence of historic and cultural factors on all proposed sites for 
direct and leased construction.
    (3) Leased space. Federal agencies must give consideration to 
historic properties which are suitable for office space or other 
commercial usage. In leasing historic property, Federal agencies gives 
a preference to such leasing actions.
    (d) Disposition of real property. (1) Property under the control of 
GSA. GSA must review all proposed excess actions for the inclusion of 
National Register or National Register-eligible properties. GSA must 
not perform an undertaking which could alter, destroy, or modify an 
historic or cultural property until GSA has consulted with the SHPO and 
the Advisory Council.
    (2) Property under another agency's jurisdiction. GSA must not 
accept property declared excess by another Federal agency nor act as an 
agent for transfer or sale of such properties until the holding agency 
has provided evidence that the Federal agency's National Historic 
Preservation Act responsibilities have been met.
    (e) Locating Federal Facilities on Historic Properties in Our 
Nation's Central Cities. When operationally appropriate and 
economically prudent, and subject to the requirements of Section 601 of 
Title VI of the Rural Development Act of 1972, as amended, (42 U.S.C. 
3122), and Executive Order 12072, when locating Federal facilities, 
Federal agencies shall give first consideration to historic properties 
within historic districts. If no such property is suitable, then 
Federal agencies shall consider other developed or undeveloped sites 
within historic districts. Federal agencies shall then consider 
historic properties outside of historic districts, if no suitable site 
within a district exists.

Subpart 101-16.9--Assignment and Utilization of Space


Sec. 101-16.900  Basic policy.

    Federal agencies must provide a quality workplace environment that 
supports program operations, preserves the value of real property 
assets, ensures essential requirements for Federal workspace, and 
ensures the provision of child care and physical fitness facilities in 
the workplace when adequately justified. Federal agencies must promote 
maximum utilization of Federal workspace in order to maximize its value 
to the Government.


Sec. 101-16.901  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Rural Development Act of 1972, 
as amended; Executive Order 12072, entitled ``Federal Space 
Management''; Competition in Contracting Act of 1984 (CICA), as 
amended; Executive Order 12411, entitled ``Government Work Space 
Management Reforms''; Executive Order 12512, entitled ``Federal Real 
Property Management;'' and Executive Order 13006, entitled ``Locating 
Federal Facilities on Historic Properties in our Nation's Central 
Cities.''


Sec. 101-16.902  Assignment and utilization services.

    Federal agencies must provide assignment and utilization services 
in a manner that will maximize the value of Federal real property 
resources and improve the productivity of the workers that are housed. 
The assignment and utilization services include the following:
    (a) Assignment of space. Federal agencies must promote the optimum 
use of space for each assignment at the minimum cost to the Government, 
and must ensure that quality workspace is delivered and occupied in a 
timely manner.
    (1) Federal agencies must assign space based on space requirements.
    (2) In accordance with 40 U.S.C. 490b and Sec. 101-17.214 of this 
subchapter, Federal agencies are authorized to allot space in Federal 
buildings to individuals or entities who will provide child care 
services to Federal employees.
    (3) In accordance with 5 U.S.C. 7901 and Sec. 101-17.213 of this 
subchapter, Federal agencies are authorized to allot space in Federal 
buildings for establishing fitness programs.
    (b) Utilization of space. Federal agencies must promote efficient 
utilization of space in accordance with GSA standards. In order to 
maximize the use of vacant space, Federal agencies' space needs must be 
satisfied in existing Government-controlled space to the maximum extent 
practical. Available space in buildings under the custody and control 
of the U.S. Postal Service must also be given priority consideration. 
Where there is no space need, Federal agencies must make every effort 
to maximize the productive use of vacant space through out-granting 
(i.e., outlease, permit, license).


Sec. 101-16.903  Location of space.

    Federal agencies must give first priority to the location of new 
offices and other facilities in rural areas (42 U.S.C. 3122). When 
Federal agency mission and program requirements call for location in an 
urban area, Federal agencies must give first consideration to central 
business areas (CBAs) and other designated areas (Executive Order 
12072). In accordance with the Competition in Contracting Act (CICA), 
Federal agencies must consider whether restricting the delineated area 
to the central business area will provide for competition when 
acquiring leased space. Where it is determined that an acquisition 
should not be restricted to the CBA, Federal agencies may expand the 
delineated area in consultation with local officials. The CBA must 
continue to be included in such expanded areas. In accordance with 
Executive Order 13006, and subject to the requirements of Section 601 
of Title VI of the Rural Development Act of 1972, as amended, (42 
U.S.C. 3122), Executive Order 12072, and CICA (41 U.S.C. 253 et seq.),

[[Page 42455]]

when locating Federal facilities, Federal agencies shall give first 
consideration to historic properties within historic districts. If no 
such property is suitable, then Federal agencies shall consider other 
developed or undeveloped sites within historic districts. Federal 
agencies shall then consider historic properties outside of historic 
districts, if no suitable site within a district exists. Each Federal 
agency is responsible for identifying the delineated area within which 
it wishes to locate specific activities, consistent with its mission 
and program requirements, and in accordance with all applicable laws, 
regulations, and Executive orders. GSA is responsible for approving the 
final delineated area and shall confirm that the final delineated area 
is in compliance with the requirements of all applicable laws, 
regulations, and Executive orders.

Subpart 101-16.10--Safety and Environmental Management


Sec. 101-16.1000  Basic policy.

    Federal agencies must provide for a safe and healthful work 
environment for Federal employees and the visiting public, protect 
Federal real and personal property, promote mission continuity, and 
provide reasonable safeguards for emergency forces if an incident 
occurs. GSA must assess risk, ensure decisionmakers are aware of risks, 
and act promptly and appropriately in response to risk.


Sec. 101-16.1001  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Occupational Safety and Health 
Act of 1970; Executive Order 12196, entitled ``Occupational Safety and 
Health Programs for Federal Employees''; Environmental Protection 
Agency (EPA) approved State plans; the National Environmental Policy 
Act; Executive Order 11988, entitled ``Floodplain Management''; 
Executive Order 11990, entitled ``Protection of Wetlands'' as amended; 
Clean Air Act, as amended; the Comprehensive Environmental Response, 
Compensation, and Liability Act; Executive Order 12699, entitled 
``Seismic Safety of Federal and Federally Assisted or Regulated New 
Building Construction''; the Solid Waste Disposal Act, as amended; and 
the Toxic Substances Control Act.


Sec. 101-16.1002  Occupancy services.

    GSA must provide occupancy services for real property assets. The 
occupancy services include the following:
    (a) Asbestos. Federal agencies must inspect and assess GSA-owned 
buildings for the presence and condition of asbestos-containing 
materials. Federal agencies must ensure that leased space is free of 
all asbestos containing materials, except undamaged asbestos flooring 
in the space or undamaged boiler or pipe insulation outside the space, 
in which case an asbestos management program conforming to 
Environmental Protection Agency guidance must be implemented.
    (1) Federal agencies must manage in-place asbestos that is in good 
condition and not likely to be disturbed.
    (2) Federal agencies must abate damaged asbestos, and asbestos 
likely to be disturbed. Federal agencies must perform a pre-alteration 
asbestos assessment for activities that may disturb asbestos.
    (3) Federal agencies must not use asbestos in new construction, 
renovation/modernization or repair of GSA-owned space. Unless approved 
by GSA, Federal agencies must not obtain space with asbestos through 
purchase, exchange, transfer, or lease, except as identified in 
paragraph (a) of this section. In situations where space is obtained 
which has asbestos, an asbestos abatement program must ensure that the 
asbestos will not be damaged or subject to disturbance by routine 
operations, and the Federal agency must implement an asbestos 
management program conforming to EPA guidance and requirements.
    (4) Federal agencies must communicate all written and oral asbestos 
information about the leased space to tenants.
    (b) Radon. Federal agencies must abate radon in their space and 
ensure that lessors abate radon in space when radon levels exceed 
current EPA standards.
    (1) Federal agencies must retest abated areas and ensure that 
lessors retest, as required, abated areas to ensure adherence to EPA 
standards.
    (2) Federal agencies must test non-public water sources (in remote 
areas for projects such as border stations) for radon according to EPA 
guidance. Radon levels must be mitigated that exceed current applicable 
EPA standards. Federal agencies must retest, as required, to ensure 
adherence to EPA standards.
    (c) Indoor air quality. GSA must assess indoor air quality of all 
GSA-controlled buildings during GSA safety and environmental facility 
assessments. Problems identified must be corrected. Federal agencies 
must respond to Federal agency complaints on air quality and take 
appropriate corrective action.
    (d) Lead. Federal agencies must test space for lead-based paint in 
renovation projects that require sanding, welding or scraping painted 
surfaces. Lead based paint must not be removed from surfaces in good 
condition. Federal agencies must test all painted surfaces for lead in 
proposed or existing child care centers. Lead-based paint found must be 
abated in accordance with Department of Housing and Urban Development 
(HUD) Lead-Based Paint Guidelines. Federal agencies must test potable 
water for lead in all drinking water outlets in child care centers. 
Federal agencies must take corrective action when lead levels exceed 
the HUD Guidelines.
    (e) Hazardous materials and wastes. Federal agencies must monitor 
the transport, use, and disposition of hazardous materials and waste in 
GSA-controlled buildings to ensure compliance with GSA, OSHA, 
Department of Transportation, EPA, and EPA-approved State and local 
requirements. In leased space, Federal agencies must ensure that all 
agreements with the lessor require that the leased space be free of 
hazardous materials according to applicable Federal, State, and local 
environmental regulations.
    (f) Underground storage tanks. GSA must manage and close 
underground storage tanks, including heating oil and fuel oil tanks, in 
accordance with GSA, EPA, and EPA-approved State and local 
requirements. GSA must require the responsible party for tanks not 
owned or operated by GSA, to follow these requirements and to be 
responsible for the cost of compliance.
    (g) Fire prevention and fire protection engineering. Federal 
agencies must follow accepted fire prevention practices in operating 
and managing buildings. Federally owned buildings are generally exempt 
from State and local code requirements in fire protection. Leased 
buildings are subject to local requirements and inspection.
    (1) GSA must identify and estimate risks and appropriate reduction 
strategies for each Federal agency's building.
    (2) Federal agencies must use the National Fire Protection 
Association (NFPA) codes and standards as a guide for its building 
operations.
    (h) Facility assessments. GSA must evaluate facilities to ensure 
compliance with GSA's Safety and Environmental program. These 
evaluations must be conducted in accordance with schedules that are 
compatible with repair and alteration and leasing operations.
    (i) Risk reduction. GSA must manage the execution of risk reduction 
projects. GSA regions, or Central Office, if

[[Page 42456]]

requested, must determine appropriate action for identifying hazards, 
initiating corrections, conducting follow-up, and documenting actions.
    (j) Incident investigation. Federal agencies must investigate all 
incidents regardless of severity, e.g., fires, accidents, injuries, and 
environmental incidents. Boards of Investigation must be formed, with 
GSA representation, for incidents resulting in serious injury, death, 
or significant property losses.
    (k) Communication. Federal agencies must inform occupant Federal 
agencies of the condition and management of their facility safety and 
environment.
    (l) Prevention. Federal agencies must ensure that fire and accident 
prevention, and environmental prevention promotes clean, safe, useful, 
and properly maintained and preserved facilities. These activities will 
promote accident and fire prevention, and environmental practices among 
GSA staff, contractors, occupant agencies, and others, as appropriate.


Sec. 101-16.1003  Federal construction and lease construction projects.

    GSA must ensure that required environmental issues are assessed 
throughout planning and project development. This will ensure that the 
environmental impacts of a project will be considered during the 
decision-making process.

Subpart 101-16.11--Security


Sec. 101-16.1100  Basic policy.

    Federal agencies must provide for the security and protection of 
federally owned or controlled real estate, including the protection of 
persons and property.
    (a) Federal agencies must, where feasible, upgrade and maintain 
security standards in each federally owned facility to the minimum 
standards specified in the June 28, 1995, Presidential Policy 
Memorandum for Executive Departments and Agencies, entitled, 
``Upgrading Security at Federal Facilities.''
    (b) GSA must establish Building Security Committees composed of 
representatives from each Federal agency at GSA controlled facilities.


Sec. 101-16.1101  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Protection of Public Property 
Act.


Sec. 101-16.1102  Law enforcement.

    Federal agencies must manage, administer, and operate law 
enforcement functions to support their mission to protect real property 
assets, as well as occupants and visitors to federally owned or 
controlled facilities.


Sec. 101-16.1103  Security services.

    Federal agencies must provide security services, including physical 
security, contract guard administration, training, and security 
systems. The security services include the following:
    (a) Physical security. GSA must determine the specific type of 
security and physical protection for each building, facility, or space 
under its custody and control, including standards for the location and 
special security needs of day care centers.
    (b) Contract guard administration. Federal agencies must allow 
contract guards to work in federally owned or controlled facilities 
only under direct supervision prior to obtaining the appropriate 
background investigations. Federal agencies must administer guard 
contracts and monitor and inspect contract guard personnel on a 
recurring basis.
    (c) Training. Federal agencies must ensure the management, 
development, and implementation of mission related training for its 
special police officers.
    (1) Federal agencies must ensure that security training takes into 
account the possibility of the threat of terrorism, terrorist attacks, 
or other acts of violence at federally controlled facilities.
    (2) Federal agencies must ensure that the level of training 
received by contract guards meets or exceeds the Federal Protective 
Service (FPS) contract guard standards. These standards include 80 
hours of classroom training on security related topics, First-Aid/CPR 
training/certification, and firearms training. Contract guard 
responsibilities include controlling building access at fixed 
positions, providing initial security screens, operating screening 
equipment, providing a patrol presence, and reporting incidents. The 
level of training required by FPS Police Officers include 8 weeks of 
law enforcement and security training at the Federal Law Enforcement 
Training Center (FLETC), chemical spray training, expandable baton 
training, 40 hours of in-service training on law enforcement topics on 
an annual basis, First-Aid/CPR training/certification, and 80 hours of 
refresher training at FLETC every 3 years. FPS Police Officer 
responsibilities include detaining suspects, arrest, investigating 
incidents, providing a patrol presence, responding to calls, monitoring 
guards, educating tenants, and performing safety and crime prevention 
activities.
    (d) Security systems. GSA must maintain communication control 
centers to protect Federal workers and visitors and to safeguard 
facilities against criminal activity. GSA must maintain a physical 
security data base of all Federal office buildings.

Subpart 101-16.12--Public Utilities


Sec. 101-16.1200  Basic policy.

    Federal agencies must provide services that ensure and promote 
economy and efficiency in the procurement of public utility services.


Sec. 101-16.1201  Program-specific authority.

    Including, but not limited to, the Federal Power Act of 1920, as 
amended; Public Utility Holding Company Act of 1935, as amended; Clean 
Air Act of 1963, as amended; National Environmental Policy Act of 1969; 
Natural Gas Policy Act of 1978, as amended; Public Utility Regulatory 
Policy Act of 1978, as amended; The Small Business Act (SBA), as 
amended by Pub. L. 95-507; Powerplant and Industrial Fuel Use Act of 
1978, as amended; Energy Policy Act of 1992, as amended; Executive 
Order 12902, entitled ``Energy Efficiency and Water Conservation at 
Federal Facilities''; and ``Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and 
Environmental Protection Agency'' rulings.


Sec. 101-16.1202  Public utilities services.

    Federal agencies must provide rate intervention and utility 
contracting services for public utilities. GSA must provide technical 
assistance services for public utilities. The public utility services 
include the following:
    (a) Rate intervention. Federal agencies must provide for 
representation in proceedings involving public utilities before Federal 
and state regulatory bodies.
    (b) Utility contracts. Federal agencies must provide for the 
procurement of utility services (such as commodities and utility rebate 
programs), as required, and must procure from sources of supply that 
are the most advantageous to the Federal Government in terms of 
economy, efficiency, reliability, or quality of service.
    (c) Technical assistance services. GSA must make available 
technical assistance or acquisition information on public utilities to 
other Federal agencies, mixed ownership Federal Government 
corporations, and the District of Columbia.

    Dated: July 31, 1997.
David L. Bibb,
Acting Associate Administrator for Governmentwide Policy.
[FR Doc. 97-20650 Filed 8-6-97; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6820-23-P