BEIJING - Beijing's already rapid pace of construction for the 2008 Olympics is shifting into higher gear, with more workers being hired to stay on schedule.

This year's goal is to complete the main structures at all venues so construction can be finished as planned by the end of 2007, Jin Yan, deputy director of the Beijing office in charge of Olympic projects, said at a news conference Tuesday.

"This is a crucial year," Jin said.

注释：

high gear：高速档
venue：n. 比赛地点
in charge of：负责
news conference：记者招待会
crucial：adj. 至关紧要的