Marriott International, Inc., the world's leading hotel company, announced today plans to relocate its global corporate office to a state-of-the-art, build-to-suit $600-million facility to be located in downtown Bethesda in Montgomery County.

The county has been Marriott's home for more than 60 years. The new complex will house more than 3,500 employees in approximately 700,000 square feet of leased office space. The company is continuing its consideration of several sites in downtown Bethesda, and is expected to select a final site in the first half of 2017. Marriott plans to occupy the new space before the expiration of its current lease at 10400 Fernwood Road in late 2022. Marriott also announced that a 200+ room, Marriott-branded hotel will be built on the site.

As part of the announcement, Marriott President and CEO Arne Sorenson said, "Marriott has been headquartered in Montgomery County, Maryland for more than 60 years and we intend to remain close to our roots. Our goal is to provide a cutting-edge workspace for our associates that offers state-of-the-art technology, modern amenities, and access to a range of transportation options." Sorenson added, "We also plan to manage a new 200+ room Marriott-branded hotel to be built on the site, which will be a significant economic driver for the community. After a comprehensive review of many excellent options in Washington, D.C., as well as Arlington and Fairfax counties in Northern Virginia, and North Bethesda, we have narrowed our search to downtown Bethesda, an area which offers multiple sites that meet our priority needs."

In addition to being home to Marriott's corporate headquarters, Maryland also has 93 Marriott-branded hotels in the state – totaling nearly 18,000 guest rooms – following the company's merger with Starwood Hotels and Resorts last month. In 2015 there were more than 10,400 jobs in Maryland at Marriott properties, including its corporate offices, Marriott-managed hotels and franchised properties.

"Marriott is a world-class company with deep roots in our state, and their decision to continue growing their business right here in Maryland is tremendous news," said Governor Larry Hogan. "For over 60 years they have been a vital member of our business community, employing thousands of Marylanders, and making a real and lasting positive impact on our state's economy. Today's announcement also reflects a great partnership with County Executive Ike Leggett and his team – a partnership that ensures our state will continue to benefit from Marriott's presence and investment for decades to come."

READ THE FULL ANNOUNCEMENT.