娱乐英语新闻:Universal's backlot locations reopen two years after a devastating fire

LOS ANGELES, May 27 (Xinhua) -- Universal Studios reopened its New York Street backlot locations upon the completion of its rebuilding on Thursday, two years after the sets were razed by a raging fire.

"This is a proud day for Universal Studios," said its president and chief operating officer, Ron Meyer. "The opening of New York Street shows the company's commitment to film and television production in Los Angeles, and to supporting filmmakers worldwide. "

Billed as "The Phoenix Project," the new sets which consist of 13 city blocks of structures, were designed by Oscar-winning director Steven Spielberg and other creative talents. The rebuilt sets feature a modern New York City block with a glass and steel look, Paris Square, London Square and Central Park. The new attraction will become part of the University Studio tour.

"I am so proud that the heart of the entertainment industry is right here in California, and I am committed to making sure it remains here," said Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger at the opening ceremony.

A fixture in Hollywood for decades, New York Street has been the setting of numerous commercials, television shows and movies such as "The Sting," "Blues Brothers," "To Kill A Mockingbird," " Back To The Future," "Frost/Nixon" and "Bruce Almighty."

It burned in an accidental fire on June 1, 2008. At the height of the construction, 500 workers were employed on the project daily.

A new King Kong 360-3D attraction created by Oscar-winning director Peter Jackson will open this summer to replace the old one that also burned in the fire, along with a video vault, the studio said.