Preliminary construction began in the spring of 1971, but it was not until July of that year that the huge steel beams were lifted into place and the structure began to take form. The huge beams 120 feet long were anchored in a base of concrete six feet thick to withstand the highest winds or earth tremors. The bright orange girders were visible throughout the entire valley and brought considerable comment from individuals who inquired as to the choice of color scheme, erroneously assuming that the prime coat color represented the finished product.