Marquette University holds topping-off ceremony for new business building

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- The final steel beam was put into place on top of what will soon become the home of Marquette University's business and innovation leadership programs.

It was a topping-off ceremony, a common tradition in construction projects. 

The steel beam was painted white and signed by the construction crew, architects designers and others involved in the project.

A Christmas tree was attached to one end with an American flag at the other, and then it was blessed, all to celebrate the progress made so far.

"This project is -- obviously we've had a lot of ups and downs and moments trying to build a project during a pandemic and through a whole bunch of other things," said Lora Strigens, VP of planning and facilities management. "And I just have to say it's been a testament to the perseverance of the Marquette community and our construction design team, who've been working so diligently on this project."

The four-story building will feature an open atrium, collaborative classrooms, lab and study spaces, as well as an event space for the Milwaukee business community.

Construction is expected to finish up by December 2022.