I. RECOMMENDATION:
Staff requests that the City Council Identify and direct staff to submit regional transportation priorities for consideration in Fresno COG’s 2026 One Voice Advocacy Trip to Washington, D.C.
II. BACKGROUND:
The Fresno Council of Governments (Fresno COG) has issued a Call for Priorities for the 2026 One Voice Advocacy Trip. This trip focuses on advancing regional transportation projects and priorities through direct advocacy with federal representatives and agencies in Washington, D.C. Participating cities and organizations are being invited to submit their project priorities.
Staff is requesting input from the City Council to identify key projects or initiatives that align with regional goals and require federal support. Additionally, Councilmembers or staff interested in attending the advocacy trip are asked to indicate their interest, as Fresno COG is finalizing logistics, including securing accommodations. Members can reach out to the City Manager for more details.
III. DISCUSSION:
Since 2003, Fresno COG has led the annual One Voice Advocacy Trip, bringing a public-private delegation to Washington, D.C., to secure funding and advocate for policy reforms. Delegates engage directly with Congressional representatives and federal agencies to address regulatory challenges and pursue federal discretionary grant opportunities for projects benefiting Fresno County communities.
Staff has attached the list from the last One Voice Trip that have regional significance with focus is transportation. Staff feels that three (3) priorities would be a good number as there will be several submitted from other agencies and the goal is to have a unified approach to the priorities.
Here are the priorities that the City focused on last year:
- Federal Funding for Airport(s)
- Assistance with Improving Housing Affordability
- Increase Ease of Access to IIAJ Federal Infrastructure Funds
If there are any other priorities of regional significance that the council would like to include staff will take the information from the Council and fill out the forms for COG to take with the delegation to Washington DC.
Staff has also included the City's proposed earmark projects, although not transportation related, council could consider to push to COG as other talking points if acceptable.
IV. ALTERNATIVES:
None.
V. FISCAL IMPACT:
None determined at this time. |