Ground Zero is now a construction site, surrounded by a tall wire-mesh fence. Photos mounted on the fence tell the story of the site, but signs also tell you not to leave mementos or flowers. You can catch glimpses of some original walls of the WTC from the elevated walkway that crosses West Street at Vesey—but be aware that it is just a walkway across a street, not a place for any kind of quiet, private moment. Much of the surrounding area is back to normal, with street vendors around the main site doing a brisk business selling T-shirts, flags and other souvenir memorabilia.
The overall plan for the new buildings at the site, submitted by architects David Childs and Daniel Libeskind, was selected after extensive debate and publicity. The plans include the Freedom Tower, a slender structure that will twist as it rises from the ground and be topped with a distinctive spire; and a memorial with pools sunk in the footprints of the Twin Towers. However, public and political debate on the development of the site continues, and the ultimate look of the site is not finalized. For the most current information about the reconstruction plans, visit http://www.renewnyc.org. The site is bordered roughly by West, Liberty, Church and Vesey streets (subway line 1, 2 or 3 to Chambers Street; R or W to Cortlandt Street; E to World Trade Center; 4 or 5 to Wall Street), Manhattan, New York City.
