What Happened
Salt Lake City recently announced the unveiling of “cycle track” bike lanes, which should make lanes safer and encourage more bicycling. Retailer REI provided a $25,000 grant to cover the cost of the construction. Not far away, in Seattle, Amazon.com has offered $5.5 million to help enhance public transportation in and around three new 38-story towers that the online retailer is building within city limits.
Why Is This Important?
While the REI funding is part of its non-profit foundation, when combined with the Amazon pledge, the two represent what Gov1 continues to see as a trend in public-private partnerships. Whether it’s Chicago’s billion dollar P3 initiative, or naming-rights deals, cities and towns across the country are seeking creative and unconventional sources of revenue.
REI Grants
REI is one of the leading retailers of outdoor gear, and is the largest consumer co-operative, returning a majority of its profits to members. The company also has a long history of giving back to communities, regularly supporting volunteer projects with money, gear and “sweat equity.”
The company’s grants program typically begins with nominations from teams at local stores. Those selected non-profits—with whom REI has developed local relationships—then submit applications for grant funding. A list of recent grants and more information on this program can be found on the company’s Web site.
Amazon’s Infrastructure Funding
In Seattle, Amazon.com has offered $5.5 million to help pay for streetcar and bicycling infrastructure improvements, which should help alleviate potential traffic congestion created by their new buildings. Approximately 12,000 employees will need to commute to the three towers; Amazon.com hopes to see 75 percent of the commuters using public transportation.
Part of the funding would enable the city to add a fourth rail car to its existing fleet (about $3.7 million per car) and cover operational costs for the first 10 years of service. For bikers, the company hopes to pay $250,000 to add bike lanes on both sides of the road between its buildings.
Actionable Information
To learn more about attracting grants for your city or town, consider attending EfficientGov’s regional event in Chicago on November 8th . Two of the sessions will focus on attracting revenue, one each on Federal Grants and Corporate Sponsorship/Naming Rights.