Crane being removed from construction site of Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts

ORLANDO, Fla. — Channel 9 was there Friday as crews began to remove the tower crane from the site of Orlando's new Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts.

The removal of the crane means the major, heavy exterior work is done. Channel 9's Kathi Belich said it also means more jobs as more crews turn to the work being done inside the performing arts center.

Dismantling the 240-foot by 240-foot crane is a huge operation in and of itself, and it's being done very carefully, said Belich.

The area is restricted right now as workers walk precariously on the crane and lower one-ton pieces of it to the ground.

"The crane actually removes a section of tower itself and lowers itself section by section," said construction supervisor Ben Manning. "It's a big milestone. It shows we are nearing completion on the exterior of the building and the skin."

Now the only work remaining on the exterior is mainly stucco work and installing the rest of the glass around the lobby.

Crews have been hanging drywall and painting inside, as well as laying the flooring.

Once the construction work is done, the performing arts center employees will get in and learn the ropes of operating the building and add the finishing touches.

The grand opening is scheduled for Nov. 6. There's no word on when the first theater season will start or what the first show will be.

WFTV