Port Authority: WTC Memorial Needs Another $3M For Construction
To view our videos, you need to
enable JavaScript. Learn how.
install Adobe Flash 9 or above. Install now.
Then come back here and refresh the page.
A funding shortfall could pose a problem for the September 11th memorial, only two-and-a-half months before it is scheduled to open.
Beginning Friday, July 8, watch the half-hour special "The 9/11 Memorial From All Sides," in which NY1's Bobby Cuza will give viewers a preview of the memorial, from its concept to its initial design, to the elements and items included in the display.
The memorial is suppose to be dedicated on September 11, then will be open to the public the following day using a timed reservation system.
Yet a number of projects have yet to be completed, like construction fencing, security cameras and a screening area.
The Port Authority approved $4 million of construction contracts on Thursday, but said a $3 million gap will have to be filled by someone else.
“This is not that someone hasn’t been pulling their weight, it’s rather that the necessary pieces that you need to put in place have grown over time," said Port Authority Executive Director Christopher Ward. "This is an enormously complex operation, that you’re seeing construction estimates change and grow over time.”
A memorial spokesman said funding issues will be worked out with the city and the Port Authority, and that the timetable for the memorial’s opening will be unaffected.