FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
May 28, 1999
MEDIA CONTACT:
Barbara Porter 202-994-6463

GW BUYS FORMER HOWARD JOHNSONS
Property To Be Used For Student Housing in August of 1999

WASHINGTON -- The George Washington University has purchased the Premier Hotel, previously known as Howard Johnsons, and plans to use it for student housing beginning in August of 1999. Located at 2601 Virginia Avenue, N.W., the building contains 194 units with associated parking. Food service will be provided to student residents in the space previously occupied by America's Best Diner.

"We're pleased with this purchase because it not only helps our students but honors our commitment to find University housing for GW students," said GW President Stephen Joel Trachtenberg. GW bought the building from Millbank Partners-Virginia Avenue, L.P., in a transaction completed today.

"We bought the building in response to community sentiments that GW house more of its students in University facilities," Trachtenberg continued.

"This initiative can only be good news for the Foggy Bottom community because it means we'll be providing increased security and services in the area. This will be positive for all of Foggy Bottom and the West End."

The addition of the 194 units, realized in the purchase of the former Howard Johnsons, represents a 10% increase in current housing availability for GW students. GW will now house about 4100 students in its own residence facilities on the Foggy Bottom and Mount Vernon campuses.

- GW -

Last updated September 4, 1999