New York dignitaries along with Larry A Silverstein, President and CEO of Silverstein Properties, and 1000 building labourers celebrated the topping out ceremony at the new 4 World Trade Center (WTC), indicating the conclusion of the steel structure of the 4 WTC at the same 16-ac WTC site.
The final beam of steel weighing 8 tons was decorated with the American flag, signed by Mr Silverstein and other leaders and was set above the 76-story, 977-foot high structure. According to Mr. Silverstein, this topping out signifies the development of a new vibrant neighborhood, with the population increasing two fold, improved public transport system, more gardens, educational institutions, and environment-friendly buildings etc., making lower Manhattan a coveted locality for different business establishments.
Mayor Michael R Bloomberg offered accolades to all involved in the reconstruction of the new 4 WTC which aided in the resurgence of lower Manhattan. Sheldon Silver, New York State Assembly Speaker, appreciated the effort which helped in mitigating some of the pain of the earlier devastation and New York’s “never surrender” attitude.
Situated at 150 Greenwich Street, the new 4 WTC designed to meet the LEED gold standard is the architectural brainchild of a Japanese architect Fumihiko Maki, according to whom the tower of the structure brings elegance, and the podium base at the lower level with many shops and restaurants brings a new vibrancy to the neighbourhood.
With the concept of 4 WTC brought to light in September 2006, after undergoing various stages of construction, it is expected to open in 2013 fall. Several other dignitaries offered laurels to those involved in rebuilding this monument which adds to the New York skyline and gives a new life to that part of New York.
Source: http://www.silversteinproperties.com