PRESS RELEASE
September 5, 2013
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Eric Werner
505-9768-3451
ewerner@cabq.gov
Albuquerque Rail Yards Opening Event September 27th
Blacksmith Shop is First Renovation Completed at Historic Site
ALBUQUERQUE, NM- The Albuquerque Rail Yards renovation project is underway, and the first phase of the project will be unveiled to the public on Friday, September 27th from 5:30 – 9 p.m. with the opening of the Blacksmith Shop, which has been designed as a casual event venue in the heart of the Barelas neighborhood.
“For years a variety of groups and individuals have been actively involved in a number of projects to revitalize our downtown area,” said Mayor Richard J. Berry. “The Albuquerque Rail Yards has been one such project. Nearby construction of apartments to draw people back into a more urban setting, new transportation facilities built in the past few years, a thriving theater, restaurants and increasing retail presence are there. And now, what will be a vibrant area for the arts, entertainment, events and outdoor public gatherings, is well on its way to becoming a reality. We look forward to the completion of the Albuquerque Rail Yard master plan that will become a major downtown attraction,” he added.
The Blacksmith Shop facility where crews from the Atchison, Topeka & Santa Fe Railway constructed draw bars and other train parts using a giant furnace will now be an inviting, casual and accessible place for events of all types.
The free opening event will feature live entertainment that includes: Soul Kitchen with Chris Dracup and Hillary Smith, Clan Tynker, Humoso, The Tango Club of Albuquerque, and Mariachi Nuevo Sonido. A cash bar and food trucks offering a variety of tasty treats will be available for guests’ enjoyment.
In addition to live entertainment, the event will feature a Car Show, Video Game Truck and a Fashion Boutique Truck. Dress is casual.
There is no onsite parking; guests are strongly encouraged to park at no charge at the city structure at 2nd Street and Gold SW, then access a shuttle at the Alvarado Transportation Center that will take them directly to The Yards.
The event is presented by the Cultural Services Department, City of Albuquerque, Richard J. Berry, Mayor. Cumulus Radio is the media sponsor for the event. For more information, please call 311 or visit http://www.cabq.gov/culturalservices/events/the-yards-opening-event. TTY Users call Relay NM or 711.