What is COG?

The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments, known as COG, helps develop regional solutions to such issues as the environment, affordable housing, growth and development, public health, child welfare, public safety, homeland security, and transportation. Founded in 1957, COG is an independent, nonprofit association comprised of elected officials from 22 local governments, members of the Maryland and Virginia state legislatures, and members of the U.S. Congress. COG is supported by financial contributions from its participating local governments, federal and state grants and contracts, and donations from foundations and the private sector.

Policies are set through the COG Board of Directors, the National Capital Region Transportation Planning Board, and the Metropolitan Washington Air Quality Committee. These three boards are responsible for a broad range of issues under the COG umbrella. Supporting committees help shape programs through the dedicated work of a wide array of public servants, from police chiefs to social workers.

COG Vision & Mission

Region Forward is our vision.  It’s a commitment by COG and its member governments, who together seek to create a more accessible, sustainable, prosperous, and livable National Capital Region. 

COG’s mission is to make Region Forward happen by being a discussion forum, expert resource, issue advocate, and catalyst for action. 

For COG's Strategic Plan, click here. For Region Forward: A Comprehensive Guide for Regional Planning and Measuring Progress in the 21st Century, click here.

COG History

The following video is a short history of COG and the metropolitan Washington region it serves. It was produced for COG's 50th Anniversary in 2007 and narrated by Gordon Peterson of ABC7 News.