Latest Media & Press

04/02/2013

Source: The Port Authority of New York & New Jersey

A behind-the-scenes look at the world-class observation deck from the 100th floor of One World Trade Center.

The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, The Durst Organization, and Legends provided guests and media today with an exclusive preview of One World Observatory from the 100th floor of One World Trade Center.

Attendees included Port Authority Chairman David Samson and Vice Chairman Scott Rechler, Durst Chairman Douglas Durst, Legends Chairman and CEO Dave Checketts and board members of the Legends Board of Directors including Hal Steinbrenner, Jennifer Steinbrenner Swindal, Randy Levine, Anthony Bruno and Jerry Jones, Jr.

Guests took in the breathtaking views from the top of the iconic building and watched the debut of the future observatory experience on big screen projectors while gathered more than 1,250 feet over Lower Manhattan. Construction on the facility will begin in early 2014, and when open in 2015, One World Observatory will provide millions of visitors with the ultimate observatory deck experience on floors 100-102.

The video presentation provided attendees with a first look at the state-of-the-art guest experience, including the “Skypod” elevators that give visitors a thrilling virtual experience of being outside the building as they make their ascent and descent in a quick 60 seconds.

The observatory will include a pre-show theater called “See Forever” where guests will learn about the history and stories of the building and experience dramatic viewing galleries. One World Observatory will also offer multiple spaces that offer stunning panoramas of the entire New York City region. The observation deck also will include a multitude of dining options, an opportunity to acquire One World memorabilia, and a premier event space.

New York Governor Andrew Cuomo and New Jersey Governor Chris Christie called on the Port Authority Board of Commissioners to approve the agreement when the matter went before the Board on March 20. The Board voted to select the nationally renowned Legends to develop and operate the observation deck atop what will be the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere when it reaches its final height of 1776 feet.

“One World Observatory will be a magnificent facility, a championship-caliber attraction that will make Lower Manhattan a premiere destination for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world,” said Governor Andrew M. Cuomo. “This spectacular venue is yet another step forward in the rebirth of the World Trade Center, of Lower Manhattan, and demonstrates the remarkable resilience of America.”

“This tower, a monument to dedication and rebirth stretches far beyond the bistate region,” said Governor Chris Christie. “It would not be complete without an extraordinary observation deck. One World Observatory will be one of the region’s premier attractions, providing people from around the globe with a one of kind entertainment experience offering visitors breathtaking panoramas of New York and New Jersey, dining and a fitting tribute to the history of the World Trade Center site.”

“Today is truly a landmark day for the Port Authority and for the people of New York and New Jersey,” said Port Authority Chairman David Samson. “It has been wonderful to see this private-public partnership with Legends Hospitality reach fruition, and we are very excited to share our vision, and some of the greatest views on the planet, with the millions of people who will visit One World Observatory each year.”

“Legends is owned by two of the most well respected and prolific organizations in sports history, and it’s clear that Legends intends to bring that same level of prestige, tradition and excitement to One World Observatory,” said Port Authority Vice Chair Scott Rechler. “The One World Observatory experience will be the Yankee Stadium of observation decks, a world-class destination.”

“We look forward to working with Legends at One World Trade Center,” said Douglas Durst, chairman of The Durst Organization. “The Observation deck will be one of the most exciting attractions in New York City and a terrific addition to Lower Manhattan.”

“We are extremely honored to be selected to operate One World Observatory,” said Dave Checketts, Chairman and CEO, Legends. “Our company was built on providing best-in-class services at two of the highest profile stadiums in the world. We intend to bring that same passion for performance to yet another iconic property and believe that we have developed an experience second to none that appropriately befits all that One World Trade Center stands for.”

“As a building unlike any other in the world, One World Trade Center rightfully deserves an observatory experience unlike any other in the world,” said Hal Steinbrenner, New York Yankees Managing General Partner. “The Yankees organization is proud to be a part of One World Observatory, a project that will combine the best that New York has to offer, from awe-inspiring city views to top-notch service, and elevate the visitor experience to new heights.”

“One World Trade Center is arguably one of the most significant buildings in the world,” said Jerry Jones, Jr. Executive Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer, Dallas Cowboys. “We are humbled to have been chosen to operate the Observatory Deck and are committed to provide all who visit with a memorable experience that honors what the building represents not just locally, but nationally as well.”

Those interested in learning more about One World Observatory can visit WTC Progress to view a short video and renderings depicting the One World Observatory experience.

One World Trade Center is a joint venture between The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and The Durst Organization. The Legends’ One World Observatory team includes The Hettema Group, Montroy Andersen DeMarco and JRM Construction.