PHOTO GALLERY: Final beam is lifted at 4 World Trade Center

June 25, 2012 | 4:39 p.m. CDT

In the southeast corner facing the 9/11 memorial, the 72-story tower that was topped off Monday is to open for business in the fall of 2013 — the first occupied high-rise at the new trade center site since the Sept. 11 attacks.

A construction worker signs the ceremonial last beam before it is hoisted to the top of 4 World Trade Center on Monday. The 72-floor, 977-foot tower is scheduled to open late next year. It's expected to be the first tower completed on the 16-acre site since the 9/11 attacks. | The Associated Press

Construction workers and officials watch as the ceremonial last beam is hoisted to the top of 4 World Trade Center on Monday. | The Associated Press

New York State Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver, left, and developer Larry Silverstein watch as the ceremonial last beam is hoisted to the top of 4 World Trade Center on Monday. | The Associated Press

The ceremonial last beam is hoisted to the top of 4 World Trade Center on Monday. | The Associated Press