After being dubbed the tallest building in America, One World Trade Center is making headlines again, though the events are far less grandiose. 1WTC is currently the site of a playground fight between the NYPD and the Port Authority, who are both claiming security jurisdiction over the area.
The PA cast the first stone by opening up a guard booth outside the site, complete with agency logo. NYPD did not take kindly to this and responded by parking their massive mobile command center several feet from the booth. NYPD rebuffed PA’s request that they leave, so PA upped the ante by parking a newer, more high-tech command center directly behind the NYPD vehicle in a classic show of frat house one-upmanship.
On a somewhat brighter note, 1WTC is set to open early next year and set an example for modern architecture. In recognition of its predecessor, the new site features state of the art fire safety systems, concrete cover on all exit routes and a dedicated stairwell for emergency personnel.
The building also features modern environmentally friendly design. Much of the material is recycled, and natural light is maximized through the glass to reduce need for electrical lighting. Rainwater is captured and used to cool the tower and water the landscaping. It is appropriately located right next to Battery Park City, which has been dubbed one of the greenest neighborhoods in the world. Battery Park is run by Battery Park City Authority, headed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo and Board Chairman Dennis Mehiel. Board members include many local prominent businessmen and philanthropists such as Fernando Mateo and Carl Mattone.
Citylife 