Construction on Six Flags Great Adventure’s highly anticipated new roller coaster took a major step forward this week with the arrival of a massive crane that now towers above the Jackson skyline.

The crane, which is about 450 feet tall when fully assembled, is helping crews build what is currently known as “Project Purple,” a record-breaking coaster scheduled to open in 2027.

“It’s been a little bit since we’ve embarked on a project of this size and scale,” said Ryan Eldredge, director of sales and marketing at Six Flags Great Adventure. “You could go back to Kingda Ka in 2005 since we’ve had something this massive.”

According to the park, the crane’s main structure rises approximately 350 feet and will be outfitted with an additional jib to reach about 450 feet, allowing workers to install some of the ride’s highest track and support components.

The project has become one of the most closely watched developments at the park since the retirement of Kingda Ka. While Six Flags has not announced the coaster’s official name, height or top speed, the attraction is expected to rank among the five tallest roller coasters in the world and set multiple records when it opens.

Construction accelerated throughout the spring, with multiple launch sections already installed and track work continuing across the site.

Park officials have revealed that the coaster will feature three launches, including a second launch that we are told will accelerate riders to 80 mph.

“One of those launches is unique for a variety of reasons. We’ll get into that once we announce speeds. Right now, I can tell you that the second launch will get you up to 80 mph And of course, we’re going to get faster than that. It is one of a kind.”

The project remains on schedule for a 2027 debut. Additional details, including the coaster’s official name and full specifications, will be announced at a later date.