Mission
To strengthen the Navy's operational readiness through effective and efficient shore installation management and exceptional customer support.
History
The Washington Navy Yard, authorized by the first Secretary of the Navy, Benjamin Stoddert, in 1799, is the U.S. Navy’s oldest shore establishment. It occupies land set aside by George Washington for use by the Federal Government along the Anacostia River. The original boundaries that were established in 1800, along 9th and M Streets SE, are still marked by a white brick wall, built in 1809, along with a guardhouse.
The Joint Committee on Landmarks has designated the Washington Navy Yard Historic District a Category II Landmark of importance, which contributes significantly to the cultural heritage and visual beauty of the District of Columbia.
The Washington Navy Yard has long served as the ceremonial gateway to the nation’s capital. The first Japanese diplomatic mission was welcomed to the United States in an impressive pageant at the yard in 1860. WWI’s Unknown Soldier’s body was received at the Yard, and Charles A. Lindbergh came to the Yard after his famous transatlantic flight in 1927.
Today, the Washington Navy Yard continues to be the “Quarterdeck of the Navy” and serves as the Headquarters for Naval District Washington, where it houses numerous support activities for the fleet and aviation communities.
For more information, go to the NSAW homepage.
Population
United States Census Bureau 2024 estimate:
The estimated population of Washington DC in 2024 is 702,250.
Location
Naval Support Activity Washington encompasses the Washington Navy Yard, the oldest Navy installation in the U.S.; Naval Support Facility Naval Research Laboratory; Naval Support Facility Suitland; Naval Support Facility Naval Observatory; Naval Support Facility Arlington; and Naval Support Facility Carderock.
As the “Quarterdeck of the Navy” and the host of many of our Navy’s central efforts in support of warfighters around the world, Naval Support Activity Washington provides safety, security, and the best possible working environment to our supported commanders and customers. We accomplish our mission and support the missions of our tenants with professionalism, courtesy, and respect for all whom we serve.
Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling is the support base for Naval District Washington (NDW) and is located three miles south of the Navy Yard in the Southwest quadrant. Personnel Support Detachment (PSD) and Navy Family Housing Welcome Center are a few of the support agencies located on this installation.
The National Capitol region is a high-cost area. With a healthy job market, housing prices have seen a steady increase. The National Capitol region is home to many military installations.
The base operator's phone number is 703-545-6700.
Base Transportation
Washington Navy Yard buses
DOD Route 8 runs Monday through Friday approximately every 60 minutes (8:00 am-3:30 pm) and stops at Humphreys Building (WNY), Building 111 (WNY), Building 386 (WNY) and, Pentagon Bus Bay L9 (Connect to Metrorail, Metrobus, ART, local and commuter buses). 202-685-1738/1746
Information is subject to change, please contact:
- Department of Defense Shuttle Program
- Office Locations: Pentagon, 3B139A; Mark Center, 03F21
- Hours: 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, Closed on federal holidays
- DoD shuttle/commuting assistance Phone: 571-372-7124
Contact Information
Pentagon DoD Base Operator: 703-545-6700
