Richland Federal Building: Complete Guide to Agencies & Visitor Access

Table of Contents#

1. Quick Building Overview
2. Full List of Housed Agencies & Key Services
3. Complete Visitor Access Guide 3.1 Parking & Transportation Options 3.2 Security Screening Requirements 3.3 Allowed & Prohibited Items 3.4 Accessibility Services
4. Top Tips for a Smooth Visit
5. Frequently Asked Questions
6. References

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1. Quick Building Overview#

The Richland Federal Building is managed by the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) and operates from 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM Monday through Friday, excluding all 11 U.S. federal holidays. The 4-story facility was originally opened in 1975 to support regional federal operations tied to the Hanford Site, and has since expanded to include public-facing services for local residents.

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2. Full List of Housed Agencies & Key Services#

Below is a categorized breakdown of agencies located in the building, with core services and contact information to help you confirm which office you need to visit:

Core Natural Resource & Infrastructure Agencies#

Public-Facing Resident Services#

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3. Complete Visitor Access Guide#

3.1 Parking & Transportation Options#

• On-site parking: Free first-come, first-served public parking is available in the west lot, with 12 ADA-accessible spots within 50 feet of the main entrance.
• Overflow parking: A public parking garage located 2 blocks north at 700 Jadwin Ave offers paid parking for $1 per hour, with free parking after 5:00 PM and on weekends.
• Public transit: Ben Franklin Transit Routes 20 and 23 stop directly at the building’s main entrance, with service running every 30 minutes during peak weekday hours.

3.2 Security Screening Requirements#

All visitors must complete the following screening steps to enter the building:

1. Present a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, passport, military ID, or tribal ID) to the front desk security officer. Minors under 18 do not need ID if accompanied by a guardian with valid ID.
2. Pass through a metal detector, and place all bags, electronics, and outerwear through an X-ray scanner.
3. If visiting a specific agency, you will be issued a temporary printed visitor badge that must be displayed on your outer clothing at all times during your visit. Badges are only valid for the floor and office you are scheduled to visit.

• Average wait time for screening: 5-10 minutes, up to 20 minutes during peak hours (9:00 AM to 11:00 AM on Mondays and Tuesdays).

3.3 Allowed & Prohibited Items#

3.4 Accessibility Services#

The building is fully ADA-compliant, with the following free services available for visitors:

• Wheelchair ramps at all public entrances, and accessible restrooms on every floor
• ASL interpreters for meetings or service appointments, available with 48 hours advance request to your host agency
• Assistive listening devices for public meetings held in the first-floor conference center
• Braille and large-print signage throughout the facility
• Designated quiet rooms for visitors with sensory needs, available upon request at the front desk

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4. Top Tips for a Smooth Visit#

1. Book appointments first: 90% of in-person services at the building require advance booking, so schedule your visit via the agency’s official website 1-2 weeks ahead to avoid being turned away.
2. Arrive 15 minutes early: Add extra time for security screening, especially if you have a scheduled appointment you cannot miss.
3. Bring all required documentation: Check the specific agency’s website for a full list of required forms and ID before your visit to avoid having to reschedule.
4. Confirm holiday closures: The building is closed on all federal holidays, so check the GSA website for updated hours before you travel.
5. **Leave prohibited items in your car: Confiscated items will not be returned by security staff, so double-check your bag for restricted items before entering.

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5. Frequently Asked Questions#

Q: Can I enter the building without an appointment?#

A: The main lobby and first-floor vending area are open to the public without an appointment, but access to all agency offices on upper floors requires a pre-scheduled appointment or pre-approved meeting.

Q: Is there food available on site?#

A: There is a small vending area on the first floor with snacks, coffee, and cold drinks, but no full cafeteria. You are allowed to bring small snacks for personal use if needed.

Q: How do I report a concern about building conditions or staff?#

A: You can submit a report to the GSA Pacific Northwest Regional Office at (206) 220-7800, or via the GSA online feedback portal.

Q: Can I bring my pet to the building?#

A: Only ADA-defined service animals are allowed inside the building. Emotional support animals are not permitted per GSA federal building rules.

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6. References#

1. U.S. General Services Administration. (2024). Richland Federal Building Public Directory. Retrieved from https://www.gsa.gov/regions/pacific-northwest-region-10/facilities/richland-federal-building
2. U.S. Department of Energy Richland Operations Office. (2024). Contact & Location Information. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/rl/richland-operations-office
3. Social Security Administration. (2024). Richland WA Field Office. Retrieved from https://www.ssa.gov/locations/wa/richland.html
4. Ben Franklin Transit. (2024). Route & Schedule Guide. Retrieved from https://www.bft.org/routes-schedules/