As of July 1, 2002 management and control of the WTC site was transferred
from the New York City Department of Design and Construction to the Port Authority following completion of emergency recovery, debris removal, and site stabilization work.
In conjunction with the Lower Manhattan Development Corporation, other agencies and entities, the Port Authority is advancing the redevelopment of the World Trade Center site. Elements of the site program include the Memorial / Memorial Center, Cultural Building (Museum Complex), Performing Arts Center, World Trade Center Permanent PATH Terminal, Security Center & Tour Bus Package as well as Commercial Office Buildings and Retail Development.
At present, the WTC site contains the Temporary PATH Terminal, a facility with minimal amenities, which was constructed to restore PATH service to Lower Manhattan as quickly as possible. In addition, there is currently a viewing fence along the length of Church Street, and a Story Corps kiosk at the Concourse Level of the Station.
Over the course of construction through the next several years, the configuration of these functions will likely change significantly, in order to meet the aggressive schedule of construction throughout the site.
Freedom Tower Update
On June 29, 2005, The new Freedom Tower design was unveiled, addressing security concerns raised about the original design. The new design retains essential elements of the original -- soaring 1,776 feet into the sky, its illuminated spire evoking the Statue of Liberty's torch -- but features a larger, cubic base set back further from West Street to protect the building against any future terrorist attempts.
