Cities and Counties are increasingly looking for ways to redevelop parts of their communities that may have been neglected or fallen into disrepair for a variety of reasons. As a firm that represents only local governments and notfor- profit organizations, we understand the basic fact that if you’re not looking to improve, you’re choosing to be left behind. Communities are under enormous pressure to make important investments in projects that will encourage development. Thankfully, there are numerous ways Congress can fund portions of projects so local governments can develop plans, implement change, and enhance the appearance of their communities.
For instance, the Economic Development Initiative (EDI) is a program where Congress aides local governments in public infrastructure projects involving construction or renovation of public facilities, beautification of parks and streets, and many other projects where there is potential to promote economic development.Relating to economic development initiatives and historic preservation, we have recently obtained funding and legislative language for the following projects:
$675,000 during two fiscal years to the Edison & Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, Florida for the restoration of the Estates and implementation of their Master Plan;
$150,000 to the City of Santa Maria, California for the construction of a new community library;
$200,000 to the City of Sarasota, Florida for the Fredd “Glossie” Atkins park expansion;
$625,000 during two fiscal years to the City of Sarasota for the Robert Taylor Community Center;
$300,000 to the City of San Clemente, California for the construction of the City’s Coastal Rail Trail;
$53.8 million to construct a federal courthouse in the City of Fort Pierce, Florida which will not only serve the strained judicial system in southeast Florida, but will be an economic catalyst for the downtown rebirth of Fort Pierce; and
Secured language to waive certain restrictions for the City of Creedmoor, North Carolina so they are eligible for Rural Community Develop