One way the pandemic has changed the way state and local governments do business is that many are reconsidering past capital plans and strategizing for future changes in facility and office needs. Though concrete action has yet to materialize in most places, many governments are currently studying these issues and surveying managers and employees to see how the future of remote work will change real estate needs. There are clear incentives: the significant savings that can flow from reducing necessary maintenance; cutting the size of custodial and upkeep staff; whittling down energy costs; and—where buildings are not owned by states or localities—eliminating rent.
- Publication date: April 2021
- Authors: Katherine Barrett and Richard Greene