Count the new bridge across the American River in Folsom among the many Sacramento Metro Chamber success stories.

The $139 million Folsom Lake Crossing Bridge, dedicated Saturday, replaces a heavily commuted roadway across the Folsom Dam, closed because of security concerns after the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Over the last five years, the Metro Chamber, in collaboration with many regional partners, invested enormous volunteer time and resources to help secure financing for the bridge and get the structure built in record time

"The important "Matsui-Doolittle Compromise"--which resolved highly contended issues on flood protection and funding--was heavily influenced by the Metro Chamber and its Cap-to-Cap effort," said Matt Mahood, president & CEO. "After a decision was reached to build the bridge, we needed to get funding--and the Metro Chamber spent several years of Cap-to-Cap advocacy in Washington, D.C., and as well at the State Capitol to get the money." Much of the local funding came from renewal of Measure A half-cent sales tax, a Metro Chamber initiative.

Mahood called the bridge a "proud achievement" for the region--made possible by excellent business advocacy and communications with local, state and federal officials.

"The Folsom Lake Crossing is a prime example of what can happen when the region's economic needs are put first," Mahood said. "Right now, there are many similar projects needing public-private cooperation, and with Federal Stimulus funding on the table to pay for them--the time is ripe for heightened advocacy by our region. Our upcoming Cap-to-Cap effort, April 25-29, historically--as seen by the new bridge--is the best way to achieve federal funding. 2009 is the year when we need a high degree of participation by civic and business leaders."

Register for Cap-to-Cap at www.metrochamber.org/captocap.