Bottom cover of sash--how to remove?

I have the parts and was ready to replace the pivot bar that had rotted off on both sides of the upper window, but when I got the window out I noticed it was not like the bottom window that I just fixed where the pivot bar is exposed and easy to screw out. The upper window's pivot bars are covered with what apparently is a piece that connects to the bottom window from one end to the other. Not sure how to explain it so I've attached some photos.

By the way, the 26-089 pivot bars worked perfect on the bottom windows, so I'm assuming the tops are identical.

The question is, does this piece covering the bottom of the window where the pivot bars are located, just snap off? Or is it glued on? It covers the entire bottom and believe it connects with the groove to the top of the bottom window where the locks are. I'm afraid to just pry it off without knowing what I'm up against, but I can't see changing the pivot shoes without removing it.

Thanks very much,
Paul

Thanks Dave! I think that is a brilliant idea and more likely to work than taking a chance in taking that strip off and damaging it. It seems to be pretty tight on there, almost unmovable that it feels like will crack to get it off.

Thanks so much!
you guys are great as usual!
Paul