It is easy to trouble shoot any project after the fact. The truth is we learned a lot form the way the Nebraska was handled. The further truth is that it is here on site. Had we waited for all the pieces to fall into place it may not be.
The Soo engine sat for a long time too. We have it. It did not go to the scrapper and it will be an interesting display when it is finished.
To me Stationary engines like this are good projects because outside of the initial big cost of concrete, and in this case a building, most other work is busy work without a lot of costs associated.
Since I have been on the board I do not remember anyone bringing it to the board for an advisory opinion and there certainly has not been a budget proposal. You guys are already on the right track. Here is how to continue.
Get a project leader that will not give up on pursuing and organizing the project. This is important because it is probably a project that will take years to complete.
Pick a spot and make a plan and bring it to the board for review.
When your location is approved look things over again and create a budget proposal. Projects are considered for funding in October of each year.
Please remember that as it goes through the budget process there will be many many other projects competing for limited funds. It all takes time. Many projects have had to go through the budget process many times before they got partial funding. This is not because the project was not a good one. A committed group that presents well and shows the long term desire can get this done.
Start with what you have, not what you could have had, and take off from there. It could be a good project for bringing extra people on to your team.
Good luck.
Please remember as the project progresses.