Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts Reveals Proposal to Redevelop the Old Post Office Building Into a New and Exciting Destination on Pennsylvania Ave

Hilton Worldwide has submitted a proposal that, if accepted by the U.S. General Services Administration, will turn the Old Post Office Building into a world-class hotel and retail destination, transforming Pennsylvania Avenue while bringing new jobs and economic activity to Washington DC. The proposal, tendered in response to the General Services Administration's solicitation for redevelopment of the iconic 112-year-old Old Post Office Building, would create a 245-room Waldorf Astoria Hotel, and feature destination retailers from New York and Paris, as well as a world-class social and meeting space and a premier fitness facility.

"With our global headquarters in nearby McLean, Virginia, we are committed to the growth and vitality of the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area while preserving this historic landmark," said Christopher J. Nassetta, President and CEO Hilton Worldwide. "I want to applaud the GSA for moving forward with this opportunity and acknowledge Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton for her leadership on the legislation that authorized this tremendously important project to proceed."

The proposal for a Waldorf Astoria hotel and iconic destination retail stores would create much needed employment opportunities and tax revenue while at the same time creating an exciting and vibrant destination on Pennsylvania Avenue. The project team has developed a collaborative plan, which includes the complete renovation and revitalization of the landmark building at no expense to tax payers or use of federal dollars. "Our project for a revitalized Old Post Office Building will encourage the flow of tourism, further economic vitality and bring new jobs to Washington, D.C., while preserving this historic building for future generations," said John Vanderslice, Global Head Luxury and Lifestyle Brands, Hilton Worldwide. "Our brand has a passion and a reputation for operating in iconic locations around the world and the Old Post Office Building is well aligned with our portfolio of unique properties in the most desired destinations."

The architecturally-rich building listed on the National Register of Historic Places is a destination in itself, situated in the epicenter of Washington between the U.S. Capitol Building and the White House. Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts include some of the most extraordinary properties in spectacular destinations around the globe with a reputation for superior service, a sense of place and unique architecture or artistic and historical significance. To complement the hotel's fusion of a historic setting with world renowned retail brands, the proposal also includes a world-class spa, a 28,000 square foot premium fitness center, four signature restaurants and 17,000 sq. ft. of function and ballroom space.

The restoration proposal includes development by Metropolitan Partnership, Ltd. in conjunction with Waldorf Astoria. In addition to the redevelopment and restoration of 1101 Pennsylvania Avenue, Metropolitan is known for first bringing a distinguished collection of retailers to its development projects at Fairfax Square, Chevy Chase and Palm Beach. "Our intention is to transform the south side of the Avenue into a vibrant mix of premiere shopping, dining, socializing and hotel functions at the very finest level seen in any of the world's great capital cities," said David Childs, Chairman Emeritus of SOM and designer of One World Trade Center at Ground Zero. "And our pedestrian-oriented spaces will add to the superb neoclassical and Romanesque architecture of the Federal Triangle they front on, creating an elegant and exciting bridge to the great National Mall and its unsurpassed visitor and ceremonial attractions."

About Waldorf Astoria Hotels and Resorts

WALDORF ASTORIA is Hilton Worldwide's luxury brand of landmark hotels, with each one as singular and timeless as the brand's namesake, The Waldorf=Astoria Hotel in New York. From classic elegance to modern grandeur, Waldorf Astoria Hotels & Resorts each represent worldly sophistication and unparalleled guest service. From sumptuous spas and culinary excellence to world-class golf, each hotel & resort offers the exquisite accommodations and signature accoutrements that define refinement and sophistication. Discover Waldorf Astoria by visiting www.waldorfastoria.com.