30 Rock "skylift" attraction clears Landmarks Preservation Commission

30 Rockefeller Center's famed observation deck is getting some new bells and whistles.

6sqt reports that the Landmarks Preservation Commission voted unanimously last week to approve a makeover of the Top of the Rock, highlighted by a new "skylift" viewing platform which will elevate visitors above the 70th floor to provide panoramic views of the skyline.

Tishman Speyer, which manages Rockefeller Center, also intends to relocate the ticketing entry for Top of the Rock into an existing storefront at street level, while also upgrading the building's lobby lighting.

The 69th floor of the building will add a new installation based on the famous 1932 photo of ironworkers eating lunch on a steel beam during the construction of the tower, which was then called the RCA Building. A movable beam will allow visitors to be strapped in, raised, and rotate to recreate the image.

The centerpiece skylift will consist of a circular glass platform, accompanied by a rooftop beacon that will be programmed to change when guests arrive.