News Summary
Construction is underway on The Torch, a 52-story skyscraper in Midtown Manhattan. This ambitious project will feature an 825-room hotel, an observation deck with transparent tubes, and a unique drop ride. The structure aims to reach a height of 1,067 feet and will include various attractions such as a restaurant and VIP lounge. Developers are addressing environmental concerns while aiming for a completion date around 2027 or 2028, enhancing the area’s appeal between Times Square and Hell’s Kitchen.
New York City – Construction is progressing on The Torch, a 52-story skyscraper that marks a significant addition to the Midtown Manhattan skyline. Located at 740 Eighth Avenue, the ambitious project being developed by Extell is designed by ODA, with SLCE Architects serving as the architect of record. The skyscraper is set to reach a height of 1,067 feet (325 meters) and will occupy a total of 875,372 square feet of space.
The Torch will feature a host of attractions, including an 825-room hotel, a public outdoor observation deck, and a unique drop ride. This observation deck will be highlighted by transparent tubes that measure 300 feet high, designed by Intamin to provide a thrilling experience for visitors. In addition to the hotel and observation deck, the mixed-use development will also include lower-level retail space, a restaurant on the upper floors, a VIP lounge, and a pool deck designated for hotel guests.
As of now, construction has been steadily progressing since the project began to breach street level. Crews are actively tying together large bundles of rebar for the tower’s structural columns and have established concrete pumping rigs on site to facilitate the construction process. The bottom six floors of the building will consist of a wraparound podium, providing a solid base for the towering structure above.
Above the podium, the main tower will rise uninterrupted until it reaches a distinctive stem-like protrusion designed to evoke the image of the Statue of Liberty’s torch. This design choice aims to create a notable silhouette against the backdrop of the City’s skyline. Additionally, the upper levels of the building will feature angled cantilevers, leading to a sloped crown that will be clad in a pleated glass curtain wall. Open-air cutouts will allow for dynamic architectural visuals and heightened visitor interaction with the surrounding environment.
Visitors to the observation deck will also be treated to cantilevering glass-clad boxes that provide astonishing views of the bustling streets below. As development continues, construction completion is projected for either 2027 or likely in 2028, although a revised timeline has yet to be formally announced.
The architecture of The Torch is ambitious, intending to stand out within the vibrant skyline of Midtown Manhattan. However, its design incorporates a significant amount of glass, which has raised concerns regarding potential bird collisions. Developers are considering measures to address environmental impacts as they move forward with the project.
The surrounding area is already known for being a busy tourist destination, strategically situated between Times Square and Hell’s Kitchen. Once completed, The Torch is anticipated to further enhance the appeal of Midtown Manhattan, drawing visitors not only for its height and architectural features but also for its unique attractions and amenities.
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Additional Resources
- New York YIMBY: The Torch Resumes Construction
- Dezeen: The Torch Supertall Skyscraper Thrill Ride
- Time Out: New Midtown Skyscraper Thrill Ride
- MSN: The Torch Supertall Skyscraper Thrill Ride
- W42ST: The Torch Rises Above 8th Avenue
- Wikipedia: Skyscraper
- Google Search: The Torch 740 Eighth Avenue
- Google Scholar: The Torch 740 Eighth Avenue
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Skyscraper
- Google News: The Torch 740 Eighth Avenue
Author: STAFF HERE NEW YORK WRITER
NEW YORK STAFF WRITER The NEW YORK STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewYork.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New York, the five boroughs, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as New York Fashion Week, Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and Tribeca Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater New York Chamber of Commerce and United Way of New York, plus leading businesses in finance and media that power the local economy such as JPMorgan Chase, Goldman Sachs, and Bloomberg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBuffalo.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into New York's dynamic landscape.
