Originally the statue was designed so that you could walk up into the torch from the inside stair cases. Turns out that it was not engineered all that well and the torch hand showed signs of fatigue. So you are no longer allowed to go up to the top of the torch.

We have nuts climbing buildings all the time in NYC. Although it is a spectacle that most enjoy, it is quite dangerous for both the participant and the spectators should something go wrong. The police are not crazy about having to keep the crowds at a safe distance and everyone once in a while a dangerous rescue is required. Why should anyone have to put their life at risk to save the *ss of this clown?