Construction has officially begun on 2 World Trade Center, the final commercial skyscraper in the rebuilt World Trade Center complex in Lower Manhattan.
The 1,226-foot-tall tower, designed with a distinctive stepped profile featuring terraces and greenery, will rise at the site of the original complex destroyed in the 9/11 attacks. Officials marked the start of vertical construction in recent weeks, with full completion expected in 2031. The project marks the end of major commercial development at the 16-acre site.
American Express will anchor the building as its new global headquarters, occupying a significant portion of the roughly 2 million square feet of office space across 55 floors. The company plans to relocate up to 10,000 employees there, reinforcing its long-standing presence in Lower Manhattan.
The tower joins One World Trade Center — the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere — along with 3 World Trade Center and the residential 5 World Trade Center. Its design by Foster + Partners emphasizes sustainability and public space integration, with landscaping that connects to the memorial plaza and surrounding greenery at street level.
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey oversees the overall redevelopment. Silverstein Properties is involved in the project alongside American Express. Initial site work dates back years, but the recent push follows the 2026 announcement of Amex’s commitment, which helped restart momentum after earlier delays.
For New Yorkers and the broader business community, the project represents continued recovery and growth in one of the city’s most symbolically important districts. It is expected to create thousands of construction jobs and add significant economic activity upon completion.
The stepped architecture and outdoor terraces aim to differentiate it from typical glass office towers, offering unique amenities for tenants and contributing to the evolving skyline.
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Tell your Smart Speaker to "PLAY 1080 KRLD"
Sign Up to receive our KRLD Insider Newsletter for more news
Follow us on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
