I really am hopeful the funds will be raised and accepted. I strongly believe the estimate deserves a second look. It is important to note that the person who was kind enough to donate their time and skills to produce the estimate, was asked to do so before a site was found and before so many wonderful city volunteers came forward. Had the person had this information to factor in, there might have been a much different estimate.I believe a great deal of cost effective measures and solutions have presented themselves since that first look.
Regardless though, it is very very worthwhile and will be a wonderful accomplishment and gift for the city to have. A strong sense of history and culture does much to inspire pride in and belonging to a community. The 62,000 IS an impressive accomplishment for fundraising so far, and really Friends of Immigrant House deserve a pat on the back for their diligence and dedication.