Video: One World Trade Center Tops Out

Caution: This video may induce vertigo.

As the final segment of the One World Trade Center was hoisted into position – topping the structure out at a patriotic 1,776 feet – Curbed NY captured its journey via a small Go-Pro camera to reveal its fascinating, and somewhat nauseating, view of Manhattan.

While the US rejoices this monumental feat, a debate amongst architects, engineers and city officials lingers on whether or not the 408-foot spire will count towards the One WTC’s overall height and allow it to officially claim its title as the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Although the Port Authority argues that the spire doubled as a radio antenna is considered as non-essential telecom equipment and therefore should not be considered as part of the “architectural top”, the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat will make the final call in October.

Updated Visuals for One World Trade

View from W Hotel © Port Authority and the Durst Organization

Check out these new renderings of Center from the Port Authority and the Durst Organization.  The images were released to illustrate recent design modifications – such as a treatment for the tower’s first 20 stories and the elimination of the casing around the antenna.   These fresh thirteen visuals offer a look at the tower from perspectives taken around the boroughs and New Jersey.   While these renderings offer a taste of what can be expected,  it is great to physical progress being made and how close we are to a completed tower.

More after the break.