Austin has a new second-tallest tower.

The Fairmont Austin, a luxury hotel that has yet to open, completed construction on its 170-foot "lighted crown" spire, according to an Oct. 6 news release.

The spire is the maximum height allowed by the Federal Aviation Firm, according to the same release. It was designed, along with the rest of the hotel, by design firm Gensler.

"The hotel sits at Cesar Chavez and I-35, a key point of entry to downtown Austin," project manager Pete Chalfant said. "The spire stands atop the building as a beacon, marking that place [and] welcoming visitors to Austin.

The 1,048-room hotel, located at 101 Red River St., is now 590 feet and the second tallest in the city.

The tallest building in Austin's skyline is the Austonian, a condominium complex that rises to 683 feet.

800-257-7544. www.fairmont.com/austin/