The Final Piece Of One World Trade Center Has Been Lifted

A big step toward the building's completion, scheduled for late 2013.

This is the tip of the spire of One WTC — the final touch on a building that, at 1,776 feet, will be the tallest in the Western Hemisphere.

LUCAS JACKSON / Reuters

STAN HONDA / Getty Images

Though the final piece was lifted today, it will be attached to the spire at a later date.

Mark Lennihan / AP

Mark Lennihan / AP

Ironworker Tommy Hickey holds a guide rope as the final piece of spire is hoisted to the roof.

LUCAS JACKSON / Reuters

For now, the piece will rest on a temporary work platform.

STAN HONDA / Getty Images

LUCAS JACKSON / Reuters

STAN HONDA / Getty Images

Seth Wenig / AP

The 18-piece spire will be 408 feet tall.

STAN HONDA / Getty Images

GARY HERSHORN / Reuters

GARY HERSHORN / Reuters

The final piece was visible even from Jersey City Heights, across the Hudson River.

Julio Cortez / AP