HARTFORD, Conn. -- Wednesday marked another big day for the new Connecticut Science Center.

Crews installed the first of 200 steel beams to start framing the building at about 10 a.m. By the end of the day, 20 beams will be placed at the site.

In all, nearly 3,000 tons of steel will form the structure which will rise about eight stories into the Hartford skyline.

The eight-story facility, slated to open in 2008, will house science exhibits for families and educators, including one for Channel 3.

"The Science Center will have 10 different exhibits covering physical biological Earth and space science. It's an exciting place for families, school groups, for tourists throughout New England we think will be visiting us," said Science Center CEO Dr. Theodore S. Sergi.

Sergi said the center is on track for a fall 2008 opening.

Click here to e-mail news tips to Eyewitness News, or dial toll-free: 866-289-0333. Refresh WFSB.com often and Channel 3 Eyewitness News for the latest news updates.