A few weeks ago, it was reported that Apple was going to open a new Apple Store in New York’s Grand Central Terminal. Today, AppleInsider reports that construction for the new store has begun at Grand Central Terminal, which may open later this year.

The start of construction comes after Apple received approval from the  Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) last month. Temporary scaffolding can be seen from the second floor in Grand Central Terminal.

Apple’s new store will surround the two adjacent balconies and is expected to generate half-a-billion in revenue a year. Photos of the ongoing construction can be seen below.  Construction is expected to be completed in four months, and the store is reportedly to open to the public before this holiday shopping season.

Earlier this year, the project for the new store was abandoned entirely. However, Apple was able to reach an agreement with the MTA, and paid the previous tenant $5 million to move out of the east balcony eight years early. In addition, reports suggest that Apple is paying a premium of $800,000 and $1.1 million per year for renting the area.

The store is expected to be about 3,000 feet larger than Apple’s flagship stores. AppleInsider also reports that Apple is said to be working with police to figure out how to handle lines during product releases, so that people are not waiting in the concourse.

While construction continues at the Grand Central location, Apple is also working on renovating their iconic Fifth Avenue store. Apple is currently simplifying the glass cube by cutting the number of panes from 90 to just 15.

[image credit: AppleInsider]