Securing Federal Funding
The Problem
Three neighboring non-profit cultural institutions were faced with declining attendance because of long distances to public transportation, limited on-site parking, and a major road construction project adjacent to their location.
Our Solution
Metcalf Federal Relations identified federal highway funds to support a pilot transportation project between the three institutions, parking lots, and local transit stops; proposed that free summer trolleys be instituted year-round and use environmentally-friendly fuel popular with the congressional delegation; formulated an advocacy strategy to support the project; updated local, state and federal transportation agencies; and shepherded the project through each stage of the highway bill’s authorization and appropriations process to ensure success.
Our Results
The project received nearly $4.25 million in federal funds and more in matching funds from the City of Chicago, a former detractor. Now cited as a major success and public-private partnership model by the City, the project was awarded an additional $2.6 million in federal funds – also obtained by Metcalf Federal Relations – for expansion. It stands to receive more funds in the pending highway bill.
Achieving Client Success