Progress on the construction of both the Mob and Neon museums is on track and advancing toward 2011 opening celebrations. Located in downtown Las Vegas less than a mile from one another, both museums are rapidly taking shape and share the common goal of preserving the unique history of our city.

According to Dr. Dennis Barrie, creative director of the Mob Museum, emails and phone calls are received from around the world on an almost daily basis about the Mob Museum.  “The Mob Museum is easily among the most highly anticipated museums in the world right now.  Organized crime has long been a subject of fascination, so it’s easy to understand the global interest in this project.”

According to Nancy Deaner, cultural affairs manager, city of Las Vegas, the Neon Museum is already a favorite photo spot for brides, fashion magazines and even music videos.  “The retro charm and kitsch of old Vegas neon is irresistible to those in the arts and entertainment industries,” said Deaner.  “We already know the Neon Museum is a home run.”

THE MOB MUSEUM UPDATE:
- The Las Vegas Museum of Organized Crime and Law Enforcement - aka The Mob Museum - is under construction inside the old Federal Court House and United States Post Office building dedicated in 1933.
- The building is significant not only for its neo-classical architecture reminiscent of the period in which it was built, but also for the historic events that unfolded inside the building, namely, the famed Kefauver hearings that in 1950 sought to expose and control organized crime.
- Core and shell construction is well underway; seismic retrofit is almost complete; new mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems are being installed; restoration of architectural details has started and fabrication of exhibits has commenced.

THE NEON MUSEUM UPDATE:
- The Neon Museum was established as a non-profit organization in 1997 to collect and exhibit historic Las Vegas neon signs, the classic art form that has become synonymous with our city.
- The Museum is best known for the Bow & Arrow, the Binion's Horseshoe, and the Silver Slipper that have all been restored to their original condition and are now located on medians along Las Vegas Boulevard North. The restoration of these signs was the first phase of what will be a series of signs restored for placement along the downtown Las Vegas Scenic Byway.
- Construction on the city of Las Vegas' Neon Boneyard Park, next to La Concha Visitors' Center, began in February 2010 and signals the first phase of development. Next up is the La Concha Visitors' Center.
- The existing sign collection is being temporarily relocated and the Boneyard is temporarily closed while construction occurs.

Photo: "The Boneyard" at the Neon Museum