A NEW WINDOW TO THE WORLD
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photographer: George Whylie Videographer: Maxine NolanThe excitement is building as one of the tallest skyscrapers in the Western Hemisphere and soon to be the third tallest building in the world is beginning to take shape in far-reaching ways with 104 floors of statuesque beauty extending up to the clouds.
This symbol of strength was opened to the press for a sneak preview last week on Tuesday, April 2, 2013. A news conference was held on the 100th floor with a panoramic glass view of the city. Legends Chairman and CEO, David Checketts (the company that will operate the new observation deck) addressed the group and gave them the plan for the very near future. This is part of an operation that has partnered with the New York Yankees and the Dallas Cowboys to operate concessions at stadiums and venues across the country. Port Authority officials were on hand this particular day to answer any questions from the press.
When completed, this new towering giant promises to be the premiere tourist attraction in New York City. One World Trade Center will be finished in 2014 and the Observation Deck is slated to finish in 2015.
There could be no better view than overlooking the tranquil Memorial Gardens below and the twin reflecting pools commemorating the memories of those we have lost in 9/11. It is a serene and peaceful view to gaze down upon.
Visitors will begin by buying tickets in the lobby, get on the escalator and go to the basement to listen to a presentation on the construction of the building while waiting to ride the elevator which will quickly transport them more than 1250 feet in one minute up to the Observation Deck. Once there, guests will get in the ‘New York state of mind’ by watching a video about New York, “See Forever”. Then the curtain goes up and a glorious skyline with a 360 panoramic view awaits them. For the price of a ticket, you will also be able to get a bite to eat in one of the restaurants or snack bars on the 101st floor and take home a souvenir from the gift shop on the 100th floor. Enjoy more videos as you descend back down on the elevator. The entire tour will take about an hour.
Although the ticket price is still yet to be determined, the Observation Deck is expected to generate revenue upwards of $875 million for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey attracting over 3.8 million visitors every year.
Not only will it become one of the top tourist attractions, but it is also business as usual as large and small corporations will fill a portion of its floors with magazine publisher, Conde’ Nast,already signing on as one of the first tenants.
Once it opens to the public, be a part of history as you visit One Freedom Tower, a new beginning and a remembrance to those we lost and will always love.
PHOTO CREDITS: AP Photo/Richard Drew, Reuters/Lucas Jackson
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