Keep in mind most of what they talk about in the video is actually the stretch goals. The $200k goal is just enough for them to move their HQ in. The $300k stretch goal adds in the first actual runway. The $500k goal adds the clubhouse/makerspace/hobby store, The $700k stretch adds in the additional runways and campgrounds that were talked about.
From the initial video it isn't clear at all that those are all stretch goals and not part of the initial plan. I don't think the video is meant to be misleading - just it isn't very clear that a lot of what they talk about is based on stretch goals not the base funding amount being asked for.
Based on the video I wouldn't consider $200k the "initial" goal but rather the minimal goal and $700k is the "initial" to do everything outlined in the video. So it would be anything over $700k when a plan like Psyborg's would make sense.
Though given Austin's business skills and Josh's philanthropic goals I suspect they're already thinking along similar lines if things get bigger than anticipated.
I realize the video states the stretch goals which I feel would be easily obtainable in this 30 day period. The reasoning behind splitting after the initial 200k is for several reasons in my head. Getting moved into the new place and having that done correctly before any of the extended goals happens will slow the pace and allow for reality to set in just how big this is going to be out of the gate.
Taking that time early will be a better service over all as they will get over what I call winning the lottery syndrome where there is a high probability to want to do everything at once as fast as possible. I have seen it many times in my years doing construction where an abundance of funding for a project has lead to the projects demise. Things like this will tend to cloud judgement thru added excitement and thinking we have "extra" we can do...more more more. Too much on the plate at once type thing.
Sitting on the money earlier gives it a chance to grow more to be able to do more over time and allows for the Ohhh Shiny!!!! to wear off a bit and let logic and clear thought return. This is not saying anything bad about FT crew or founders or anything like that. Simply stating humanity and how big changes effect people differently. Its better to be slow and have small mistakes or set backs then to jump in feet first and end up with broken legs.
The added time would give them a chance to better sort and choose who and how the work will get done. No offense to the community and the willingness to help spirit of things but on big projects it is best to "go outside the family". None of the Bobby says he can do X and you find out Bobby is not so skilled, or Bobby moves slower then anticipated, or Bobby cut too many corners. It will be in the best interest to have contracted and bonded businesses to do the heavy lifting on a project this big. That way all are covered and the higher chance for the desired outcome to happen.
Take my word on this.. one person gets injured on a project like this and that could end everything in a millisecond. With my injuries I have easily racked up half a million dollars in medical and thats with the insurance company fighting tooth and nail to get out of paying as little as possible. Life happens and you never know how people will react to something as drastic.
Just looking forward with experience and MUCH hindsight. I know our community likes to see the best in people but the real world does not work that way and precautions should be taken to protect what is unfolding here in such an amazing manor and response.
