Rahway Arts Distrct News

This Fall marks an exciting new development here in the Rahway Arts District. Mayor James J. Kennedy
recently announced that the City Council approved an ordinance that will cover costs for permits,
demolition and engineering of the Hamilton Street Arts District Extension Project. Damage due to years of
flooding at this site from the adjacent Rahway River has made the demolition of the building necessary.

The Arts District Extension Project includes the development of the area into a cultural site that will give
the city greater opportunity to develop the city's arts and culture while supporting the existing arts
organizations and Rahway's cultural and business communities.

Bohler Engineering Conceptual Drawing of the Extension Project

Bohler Engineering Aerial view of the Hamilton Street Site

The renovation to the Arts Center began in late 2006 and will be completed early in 2008 and
includes:
* installation of central air conditioning which will make this a year-round venue
* upgrading of mechanical, plumbing, and electrical systems. This includes increasing the
electrical load to meet the standards of modern production.
* the modernization and renovation of the dressing room area
* the expansion of the dressing room area to include handicapped accessible dressing rooms
* the expansion of backstage space to include a rehearsal room
* the expansion of the wing space of the theatre to provide improved access to dressing rooms
* the construction of a better loading area behind the theatre that will improve access for set
and production equipment deliveries
* the addition of a demountable stage extension for larger performances
* the restoration of the historic orchestra pit to enhance the theatre's classic Wurlitzer Theatre
Organ originally installed in 1928
* the creation of a new Meet and Greet reception room for better utilization of the facility
* the relocation of administrative offices to free up more space for use/rental within the theatre