The Enduring Spirit of Freedom
Our World Trade Center (OWTC) in New York City, which opened in 2014, is no ordinary building. After the devastating terrorist attacks of 2001, this area of Lower Manhattan became sacred ground. Today, it’s a hub of commerce but also seeks to honor those who perished on that fateful day.
Two large, square memorial pools occupy the bases of the original two towers. The continuously flowing waterfalls and lighting provide a tranquil setting to pay tribute to those who lost their lives that day — their names are inscribed on the walls surrounding the pools.
The height of OWTC is 1,776 feet — a nod to the Declaration of Independence — making it the tallest building in the United States. However, controversy abounds since its height includes a spire that’s over 400 feet tall. Cities with skyscrapers take their heights seriously.
The elevation of OWTC’s observation deck is 1,362 feet: the height of one of the original twin towers. The deck’s glass parapet (wall) extends it to 1,368 feet: the height of the other tower. Navigating the massiveness of OWTC requires the services of 73 elevators. The express elevators traveling from the ground floor directly to the observation deck hum along at nearly 25 mph, taking less than a minute to reach their destination. One elevator and stairway are reserved for first responders only.
OWTC’s lobby is 55 feet tall and possesses 55,000 square feet of retail space. Underground, there are connections to numerous subways and rapid-transit trains and access to a ferry terminal on the Hudson River.
One World Trade Center is a tribute, a symbol of resolve, and an architectural marvel. May we never forget the backstory of its existence.
