Memo on Ground Zero residential cleanup forum, May 2002

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

Port Authority Vice Chairman Charles A. Gargano said, "The families of victims of the World Trade Center tragedy, as well as public officials and transportation and community groups, must have a strong voice in the rebuilding of Lower Manhattan. They must be assured that a respectful memorial will be built to honor those who lost their lives, and that an improved transportation system will rise from the devastation caused by the September 11 attacks. And we will show the world that by working together, we will revive and rebuild."

Port Authority Executive Director Joseph J. Seymour said, "The Port Authority is committed to working closely and cooperatively with the Lower Manhattan Development Corp, to make sure we get feedback from all stakeholders including the families, advisory committees and the general public as this process moves forward. Public outreach is a critical part of the process and one that we take seriously. With this input, we will develop a consensus on the best redevelopment plan for the World Trade Center site and adjacent areas."

LMDC President Lou Tomson said, “Although we are still in the early stages of the planning process, public input has already proven invaluable in shaping the Preliminary Principles and Blueprint and the Residential Assistance program. This plan ensures the LMDC and Port Authority will continue to have the benefit of broad public input at each critical juncture.”

The LMDC/PA study of the World Trade Center site, adjacent areas and related transportation infrastructure, will be completed in three phases, with the successful bidder to be announced next week. The first phase, to be released in early or mid July, will result in up to six conceptual options for the site, adjacent areas and related transportation infrastructure. The second phase, to be announced in September, will result in three options, and a final proposed plan will be released in December. Before and after each phase, LMDC and Port Authority will hold public hearings, meet with various public officials and groups, and provide other avenues for submitting public comment.

The first public hearing, to be held on May 23 at Pace University from 6pm to 9pm, is intended to provide an opportunity for public comment just as Phase I of the RFP gets underway. The hearing will consider ideas for the future of the site, adjacent areas and related transportation infrastructure, including those suggested in the LMDC Preliminary Principles and Blueprint.

To obtain a copy of the LMDC Preliminary Principles and Blueprint, visit LMDC’s website at www.RenewNYC.com. To obtain a copy of the RFP or public input process plan, visit the Port Authority website at www.PANYNJ.qov. or the LMDC website.

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