Caterpillar Visitors Center Topping Out Ceremony

On Thursday, November 17, the Caterpillar Visitors Center (CVC) reached a construction milestone ­­- the final steel beam was placed at the construction site on the Peoria riverfront. Employees and community and elected officials were invited to sign the beam before the ceremony. Caterpillar Chairman and CEO Doug Oberhelman, Peoria Mayor Jim Ardis, Peoria County Chairman Tom O'Neill, Peoria Riverfront Museum CEO James Richerson and Peoria Riverfront Museum Chairman Dave Ransburg all spoke at the event.

"I can't wait for the day when our visitors and customers come to see Caterpillar's technology, history, legacy, where we are headed and our global footprint," said Oberhelman.

The CVC will feature interactive galleries and theaters that celebrate Caterpillar's heritage while keeping an eye on the future and a focus on customers and sustainability. The new facility will also house a Cat Merchandise Centre.

Caterpillar is working with River City Construction of East Peoria, Ill., to build the 50,000-square-foot building and is on track to open in October 2012. Follow progress on construction of the new building here!