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Facilities Update
Albuquerque Kicks Off Phase 2 Of Convention Center Renovation Construction


Throwing a shovel full of dirt to symbolize the work on the Albuquerque Convention Center for the next 10 months, Albuquerque Mayor Richard J. Berry and local tourism officials kicked off the work on Phase 2 of the renovation project on October 14, 2013.

The $12.95 million project addresses both exterior and interior upgrades to the west side of the Albuquerque Convention Center, including a new 5,600-sq. ft. addition consisting of a new large entrance vestibule, small retail space and outdoor deck for delegates to enjoy the city's 310 days of sunshine.  

Interior improvements include new floor, wall and ceiling finishes, new LED lighting, and a gas fireplace in the atrium area to integrate a Southwestern architectural element. The 3rd Street traffic way between Tijeras and Marquette will also be reconstructed as part of this phase to improve pedestrian flow between the center and the Civic Plaza outdoor event space.

"We are excited to see Phase 2 of this project break ground as it will transform the look and aesthetic of the Convention Center," said Rob Enriquez, VP of Convention Sales, Services and Sports at the Albuquerque Convention and Visitors Bureau. "Having the center showcase the unique Southwestern architectural elements will ensure that the local flavor of Albuquerque is infused into meetings held at the facility."

The renovation project is scheduled to be complete in late summer 2014. Local contractor Bradbury Stamm has committed to working around the already booked events over the next 10 months with minimal disruptions. Local design firm Dekker/Perich/Sabatini designed both phases of construction. 

Lighting upgrades installed in Phase 1 of the project have dramatically improved the efficiency of the building. The energy savings from the Convention Center, coupled with previous energy savings equates to a total of more than $316,000 in energy efficiency rebates. That's enough energy to power 790 homes, more than half a million dollars in energy costs per year, more than 2 million gallons of water used for energy production, and the savings have reduced carbon emissions by more than 3,100 tons per year-the equivalent of taking 581 cars off the road.
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