History of the BEP: History of the BEP Buildings (1938-1991)

By the mid 1920’s, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing was once again looking to expand and centralize its facilities since the outbuildings were in poor condition and additions to the building were not practical. On August 13th, 1935, Congress appropriated $2,000,000, not to exceed $5,500,000, for the land and construction for a new building opposite the main building on 14th Street, between C and D Streets. The third building, known as the “annex building”, would also house the Public Debt Division of the Treasury Department. By March of 1936, extensive plans had been drawn up, demolition of the existing structures had begun and in June the first concrete was poured. The building was occupied on May 17th, 1938 and dedicated in November of 1938 at a total cost of $6,325,000.