American Express to Anchor Final World Trade Center Tower

The 55-story, 2-million-square-foot building will complete the redevelopment of the 16-acre WTC site.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 5:50am

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a scale model of a modern, glass-and-steel skyscraper, dramatically lit to highlight its clean, geometric design.The sleek, modern design of the 2 World Trade Center tower, soon to be the new American Express headquarters, symbolizes New York City's resilience and commitment to growth.NYC Today

Nearly 25 years after the 9/11 attacks, the World Trade Center site is set to complete its transformation with the construction of its last office tower. The 2 World Trade Center building will house American Express as its new headquarters, marking the culmination of a long redevelopment journey. The project is expected to break ground this spring and be completed by 2031.

Why it matters

The 2 World Trade Center project is seen as a symbolic and monumental step in New York City's resilience, underscoring the city's commitment to growth and innovation as a global business hub. However, it also reignites debates about urban renewal, corporate influence, and the future of the city's skyline.

The details

The 55-story, 2-million-square-foot tower, designed by architect Norman Foster, will accommodate up to 10,000 workers. American Express, which has been rooted in the area for nearly 200 years, will occupy the entire building. While many celebrate the project as a symbol of renewal, others question the cost and priorities, arguing that private-led developments may prioritize corporate interests over public needs.

  • The project is expected to break ground as early as this spring.
  • Completion of the 2 World Trade Center building is slated for 2031.

The players

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York, who announced the 2 World Trade Center project.

Stephen Squeri

The CEO of American Express, which will occupy the entire 2 World Trade Center building.

Larry Silverstein

The developer of the 2 World Trade Center project.

Lisa Silverstein

The CEO of Silverstein Properties, the development company behind the 2 World Trade Center project.

Norman Foster

The architect who designed the 2 World Trade Center building.

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What they’re saying

“Building 2 World Trade Centre will bring another iconic skyscraper to Lower Manhattan, create thousands of good-paying union jobs, and provide billions in economic benefits to New Yorkers.”

— Kathy Hochul, Governor of New York

“This is an investment in our company's future, our colleagues, and the Lower Manhattan community.”

— Stephen Squeri, CEO, American Express

What’s next

The project is expected to break ground as early as this spring, with completion slated for 2031.

The takeaway

The 2 World Trade Center project is a complex and controversial development that symbolizes New York City's resilience and commitment to growth, but also raises questions about urban renewal, corporate influence, and the future of the city's skyline.