Photos: Newly restored Tucson Inn sign lights up for the first time
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Kelly Presnell
Photojournalist
- Updated
The neon sign for the Tucson Inn, newly repaired and restored, was lit for the first time, December 14, 2022, since the work was completed early last month. The sign is expected to be fully operational in the first part of next year.
Chuck Penson gets a cell phone photo of the newly refurbished neon sign for the Tucson Inn shortly after it was lit for the first time, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022. This lighting is temporary as the sign is expected to be fully operational early next year. The iconic neon sign was refurbished through the partnership of the city's Thrive in the '05, Pima Community College and Ignite Sign Art Museum and has around 800 feet of neon, 22 transformers and nearly 800 bulbs.
A pedestrian stroll past the newly refurbished Tucson Inn neon sign shortly before a ceremony to throw the switch and light the iconic landmark again, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022. A small crowd turned out for the block party to celebrate the sign's return.
The newly refurbished neon sign for the Tucson Inn seen through the lights of a decorative Christmas tree shortly after the neon sign was lit, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022.
The evening sun set behind the newly refurbished neon sign for the Tucson Inn, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022.
Juan Moreno sings with Pina Community College's Mariachi Aztecas, the evening's entertainment before the lighting of the newly refurbished neon sign for the Tucson Inn, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022.
The neon sign for the Tucson Inn, lit for the first time since it was repaired, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022. The main work on the sign was completed late last month.
A few people stop to get photos the newly refurbished neon sign for the Tucson Inn, glowing along Drachman Street, Tucson, Ariz., December 14, 2022.
Kelly Presnell
Photojournalist
As featured on
PCC might tear down historic Tucson hotels needing costly workFor Star subscribers: After it gathers more public comment, Pima Community College board will vote on whether to demolish three 1940s/'50s hotels on Drachman near downtown, including the Tucson Inn.
