We must be smarter about how we can successfully compete for federal dollars since the budgets are smaller than the demand. For example, last year there were over $60 billion dollars in requests for only $1.5 billion dollars available in the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grants. This week Ray LaHood, the U.S. Transportation Secretary, strongly suggested that we (Triad area's four metropolitan planning organizations or MPOs) be more unified in our vision and strategy when requesting grant funds.
LaHood said, "Four MPOs is probably three too many.... If you speak with one voice, you'll be pretty damn powerful."
Triad, can we do it?
Do we really have a vision and strategy for livable communities...with housing that is really affordable and transportation that if forward thinking...with emphasis on more than just cars?
Our own Carolyn Biggerstaff attended the Summit and says: "Sec. LaHood made it very clear that the partnership among DOT, HUD, and EPA will include allocations of shrinking federal dollars to communities that do a good job of planning among all 3 areas – because all 3 are integral parts of affordable, sustainable communities. (GSO is already leading the change with its 2010 - 2015 5-year plan required by HUD. Our consultants are working on the hardest part --- strategies --- now.) I was pleased that Sec. LaHood spoke highly of mixed-use communities with plenty of options – light rail, walking, bicycling --- and the need for interesting places to live. For those of us who want to get away from cookie-cutter housing complexes, I am hearing encouragement from those in charge of our federal dollars. "
Humm..I wonder, if we can be the Frieberg, Germany of the East Coast with public rail, large traffic free centers, houses that turn the suns rays into cash and unified and socially engaged citizenry?
Dreams you say?
Ray LaHood might not think so. He alludes to our being big thinkers. "If you build it they will come," he says.
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Additional Information Source: http://www2.journalnow.com/content/2010/apr/29/speak-with-one-voice-lahood-says/
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