As Crews Begin Installing 9/11 Tribute Lights, Future Of Display Remains In Doubt
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork/AP) -- Work has begun on one of the most powerful symbols that honors 9/11 victims. Electricians, lighting experts and stage hands gathered on a rooftop near the World Trade Center site Friday to install the "Tribute in Light" beams.
Organizers with the Municipal Art Society say they hope to make the tribute a permanent part of the Sept. 11 remembrance events, but funding is not guaranteed past this year.
Those willing to make a donation can call (212) 935-3960, text "TRIBUTE" to 20222 to make a one-time donation of $10, or click here.
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Crews began Saturday setting up 88 search lights the size of refrigerators that will be turned on just before sunset on September 11. The memorial display creates two sky-piercing columns of light in roughly the spot where the Twin Towers once stood.
The lights shoot four miles up and can be seen from 60 miles away.
Organizers say the trickiest part is getting each of 88 beams to aim straight at the sky. Each light must be adjusted by hand. Spotters call in adjustments from Brooklyn, Staten Island and New Jersey.
Preparations for the tribute will go on for another week before the columns are switched on Sept. 11.
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