Design Unveiled for Historic Evolution of 9/11 Memorial

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum unveiled the design for the historic evolution of the 9/11 Memorial on Wednesday, the 16th anniversary of the formal end of rescue and recovery operations at Ground Zero.

The dedicated space will honor the ongoing sacrifice of rescue, recovery and relief workers, and the survivors and members of the broader lower Manhattan community, who are sick or have died from exposure to toxins at the World Trade Center site in the aftermath of 9/11. It will also recognize the courage, selflessness and perseverance of the men and women of the rescue and recovery effort.

The dedication will be in the clearing on what is known as the Memorial Glade. This meaningful location on the Memorial plaza will mark the historical placement of the main ramp used during the recovery period to remove debris and establish a pathway for rebuilding.

The design “will remind all who come here how the best of our human nature responded to the worst; how human dignity triumphed over human depravity,” said 9/11 Memorial & Museum President and CEO Alice Greenwald. “It will express our collective, undiminished gratitude for their service.”

This major milestone was reached with the help and support of 9/11-health advocates and providers, 9/11 family members, first responders and lower Manhattan residents. This group will continue to provide insight and feedback as an inscription for the dedicated space is developed. 

The design includes a pathway flanked by a series of large stone elements pointed skyward that are worn, but not beaten, symbolizing strength and determination through adversity. The inscription, anticipated to incorporate World Trade Center steel, will be developed to complement the physical design.

Click here for more information about the planned evolution of the 9/11 Memorial.

By 9/11 Memorial Staff