Liberty’s crown to open July 4

The Statue of Liberty’s crown is reopening on Independence Day for the first time since terrorists leveled the World Trade Center. The 265-foot high crown was closed to the public due to security concerns after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks. The base, pedestal and outdoor observation deck were reopened in 2004 while the crown remained off-limits.

It is estimated that 50,000 people will be able to climb to the top of the statue’s pedestal over the next two years before it closes for safety and security renovations again. Beginning July 4, visitors can mount the 168 steps leading to the crown.

The 305-ft. tall copper statue was designed to mark the 1876 centennial of the Declaration of Independence.

In related news, it was announced May 8 that $25 million in stimulus funding will be used for improvements at Ellis Island, the historic immigration center in New York Harbor.