Pier nearly ready for Intrepid return

NEW YORK On Thursday, workers were using a large crane to hoist two sections of a 65-foot staircase and elevator tower - part of the rebuilt Pier 86.

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is getting an $8 million renovation of the ship's interior. It's returning to the west side pier in October, and will reopen to the public sometime in November.

The tower will be attached to the vessel and become its main point of entry.

The refurbishment of the 912-foot-long aircraft carrier includes high-tech exhibits, state-of-the-art visuals and interactive displays.

Replacing the aging, city-owned pier is costing $50 million.