FREDERICK, MD—Following news earlier this month that Marriott would be leaving Bethesda for parts unknown comes the news that Bechtel as well is leaving the state. The company will be leasing 175,000 square feet in the Reston submarket, relocating 700 jobs currently based in Frederick.
The move is part of a global restructuring and follows another departure from the state: four years ago Bechtel moved its global headquarters out of Maryland and into Reston.
"Reston has proven to be an ideal location for Bechtel," says CEO Bill Dudley in a prepared statement. "Conveniently situated between two airports, it facilitates international and domestic travel, which is key to our business, provides access to a highly skilled workforce, and offers an enjoyable work/life environment for our employees."
Dudley added that the company also considered Texas and Arizona.
The Fairfax County Economic Development Authority secured a $500,000 state grant for the project. The governor also approved $4 million in funds from the Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant (VEDIG).
A call to Bechtel was not immediately returned.
Earlier this month, Marriott International's CEO announced plans to relocate the company's 900,000-square foot headquarters from Bethesda when its lease expires in 2022. The company will stay in the region, and it appears that the District itself is a likely possibility for the relocation.
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