Logistics is Biggest Challenge for Freedom Tower Construction

WNYC News | Jul 12, 2010

Two large yellow backhoes and one forklift got a welcome like none they'd ever had before yesterday when they arrived to work on the Freedom Tower.

REPORTER: Governors Pataki and Corzine, along with Mayor Bloomberg, developer Larry Silverstein and others were there to cheer them on. Yesterday's photo op was meant to show that progress is being made now that officials have a new deal in place.

Consruction Manager Mike Menella worked on the original World Trade Center. He says back then the challenge was using new techniques to build the tallest tower in the world. This time, he says the big challenge will be coordinating construction with the PATH terminal, and, later, the memorial.

MENELLA: It is a booming neighborhood, this is a residential area --we have to respcet that this is a residential and commercial area so there are logistical issues to keep 3 major projects going forward at the same time.

REPORTER: The big unanswered question about the tower is who will occupy it? Governor Pataki said yesterday that several state and federal agencies have expressed interest.

Be alert for scams. WNYC never asks for nor accepts money for coverage or interviews. Anyone making such a request does not represent WNYC.

Top Stories

Your guide to voting in New York's 2026 elections for governor and Congress

Gina Hinojosa Aims to Make Texas Blue Again. Plus, Reading Is Alive and Well

Claire Valdez on populism and the DSA agenda in Congress

The Classroom/Technology Pipeline

YOU ARE ONLINE