The gap in New York’s skyline, and the fracture in America’s pride, has finally been filled. After eight years of planning and construction, the building of New York’s One World Trade Center was completed this fall. It was over thirteen years ago that the Twin Towers came crashing to the ground, striking fear and paranoia in the hearts of Americans. Now, a new building stands in their place, replacing that fear with hope.
Formerly dubbed the “Freedom Tower,” One World Trade Center officially opened for business on November 3, 2014 in New York City. Standing at a symbolic 1,776 feet tall, the skyscraper is now the tallest building in America and the fourth tallest building in the world. The 104 floor steel structure overlooks the 9/11 memorial, dedicated to remembering those who died in the attacks. Overall, the building cost a total of 3.9 billion dollars, which many believe is money well spent.
The tower also serves as a transitionary agent, changing an older area to one more modern. The area began filling with luxury shops, technology firms, and residential buildings, with the change coinciding with the construction of the tower. Five hundred employees and tenants arrived the day of the opening, with an estimated three thousand more on their way.
Along with commercial purposes, the One World Trade Center plays an important role in mending America’s pride. It is a sign to other nations that we are constantly recovering from the tragedy.
“I feel we need to rebuild,” comments Mrs. Schantz, who teaches American History at Ridge High School. “It’s important for New York to reconstruct, but they must remember to do so respectfully.” The reconstruction efforts have been relatively successful, and the reconstruction of the World Trade Center has boosted citizens’ morale even higher.
Although the tower is a symbol of hope, it sparks some controversy amongst Americans. Some believe the new tower is a target for terrorists, its presence essentially begging for another attack. As comedian Chris Rock said on Saturday Night Live, “They should change the name from the Freedom Tower to the ‘Never Going in There Tower,’ because I’m never going in there.”
However, the architects of the World Trade Center were well aware of this threat. They confidently believe they have created the safest building in the world. A special wall that can withstand explosions protects the staggering 47-foot-tall lobby, decorated with gorgeous white marble throughout. The 185-foot concrete foundation protects the elevators and stairways. Forty thousand metric tons of steel stabilize the building and help prevent collapse. For quick evacuations, the building provides extra wide staircases and exits going directly out to the street. The police, the FBI, and private experts helped design the building’s communication system. All in all, the building outwardly appears to be terror-proof and safe for New York’s citizens.
Hannah Wilkinson ’17 believes that any fear of the World Trade Center would be irrational. “I mean, I think it’s a good thing that New York is rebuilding,” she expresses. “I think people put a lot of effort into making it safe for everyone to use, and I trust it.”
Despite what some people may say, the One World Trade center has become a beacon of hope for all Americans to look to. It has renewed pride in the nation, and serves as a constant reminder that while America may be knocked down, it is never out. America will never forget the disaster of 9/11, but it can rebuild, and, with this revitalization, bring confidence that even in struggle, there is hope.