A major milestone in the transformation of Lower Manhattan has been reached as construction officially begins on 2 World Trade Center, the final commercial tower planned for the rebuilt World Trade Center complex.

American Express will establish its future headquarters in the new 55-story building, marking another significant step in the site's long-term redevelopment following the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Designed with a modern glass-and-steel exterior, the tower will offer approximately 2 million square feet of office space, along with more than an acre of landscaped terraces and outdoor gardens.

Photo: Foster + Partners/WTC

Once finished, the skyscraper will stand 1,226 feet tall. Developers expect the project to be completed in 2031.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani highlighted the project's economic benefits, noting that it is expected to generate about 3,200 jobs and contribute an estimated $6 billion to the city's economy.

Photo: Foster + Partners/WTC

Speaking at the event, the mayor emphasized the location's historic importance, describing it as a place of deep national significance and remembrance.

Lisa Silverstein of Silverstein Properties, whose company has overseen the site's development since 2001, reflected on the lengthy rebuilding process. She described the new tower as the final piece of the World Trade Center redevelopment, bringing to completion a project that has taken decades to achieve.