Funding is how projects go from blueprints to reality, and it often determines the overall success of the project.
Like many things in this world, iQuilt and its projects would be nothing without funding. Funding, and the ability to accept donations from private companies, is why iQuilt’s work is more effective than anything done through the city government. Since iQuilt is a nonprofit, they’re almost unlimited in term of donors and sponsors. Despite having donors, and a professional design team, some of iQuilt’s projects have failed to launch due to lack fo funding
The interview revealed what would have been a major project, that did not receive the necessary funding. The Bushnell Garden’s project was meant to be a major addition to the park, and iQuilt did a lot of planning and moving to make it happen. Working together, iQuilt and Hartford moved the street to make way for the gardens, and iQuilt obtained the newly created land for the project. Since then, the land has been empty. Not only do they need a plan; they’ll take “anything at this point.” But, they also need a donor or sponsor to make that happen. Granted, the plan is the first step, but given the stress of the pandemic, funding has become increasingly challenging.
In terms of funding parks, the city of Hartford has turned to Friend groups, groups of donors/sponsors who support certain parks. Since the many parks are under the oversight of many different friends groups, there are visible disparities between parks. Of course, Elizabeth Park is very well kept. Busnhell Park is also well kept, and well lit as a result of iQuilt’s lighting project; but it is not as picture-perfect as Elizabeth Park. This shows that funding is focused on beautification, rather than practicality or sustainability. Relating to land use, shouldn’t the city and/or Friend groups fund parks that have multiple uses?