ECI Regional Planning District Washington, D.C. Trip 2026
Each year, the ECI Regional Planning District (ECIRPD) travels to Washington, D.C. to meet with federal partners and advocate for investment in the communities we serve. From February 2nd–5th, ECIRPD representatives will be in Washington, D.C. meeting with congressional offices, federal agencies, and key partners to strengthen relationships, share project updates, and explore future funding opportunities that support East Central Indiana.
ECIRPD Team
The ECIRPD team will be represented by Bill Walters, Executive Director; Michelle Badders, Director of International Economic Development; and Jacob Thomas, Director of Economic Development.
Washington, D.C. Trip Meetings
Throughout the week, the ECIRPD team will participate in strategic meetings with Senator Jim Banks, Senator Todd Young, and Representative Marlin Stutzman, along with staff from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA).
Discussions with congressional offices and federal agencies will focus on reviewing recent regional initiatives, highlighting ongoing and future economic development efforts, sharing ECIRPD’s mission, and continuing to build productive working relationships.
Several meetings will center on federal programs that play a critical role in supporting local communities. Conversations with the Department of Transportation will include updates related to the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant, which is closing out earlier than originally planned, as program initiatives have progressed ahead of schedule.
Meetings with the Environmental Protection Agency will include discussion of ECIRPD’s Brownfields Program and its role in supporting site redevelopment across the region. The team will also meet with the Economic Development Administration to discuss regional priorities and provide updates following the recent closeout of ECIRPD’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) grant.
While in Washington, D.C., ECIRPD will also meet with Merchant McIntyre Associates, a federal advocacy firm with experience across Congress, the White House, and executive branch agencies. These discussions will support ECIRPD’s efforts to stay aligned with federal priorities and remain well-positioned for future funding and policy opportunities.
Why This Trip Matters
This visit plays an important role in advancing East Central Indiana’s interests at the federal level. By engaging directly with decision-makers, ECIRPD is able to maintain strong relationships, provide updates on regional projects and programs, and gain insight into upcoming opportunities that support long-term economic growth and community development.
ECIRPD remains committed to representing the needs of East Central Indiana and ensuring communities across the region are positioned for continued investment and success through strong federal partnerships.