Construction Begins on 2 World Trade Center Supertall Skyscraper in New York

Construction has officially begun on 2 World Trade Center, one of New York City’s most anticipated new supertall skyscrapers. The 1,226 ft (373.7 m) tower will complete the rebuilt World Trade Center skyline.

The building will rise with a distinctive stepped design featuring multiple terraces planted with greenery. This approach creates a striking profile while integrating natural elements into the high-rise form. The design also provides continuity with trees at ground level.

American Express will occupy the tower as its new global headquarters. The 55-storey structure will deliver around 2 million sq ft (186,000 sq m) of office space, with capacity for up to 10,000 staff.

The project has a long development history. Foster + Partners originally designed it before Bjarke Ingels Group took over. Foster + Partners eventually returned for the current iteration. Silverstein Properties is developing the scheme.

Initial groundwork actually began back in 2008, with foundations completed in 2013. The recent groundbreaking marks the start of above-ground construction. Completion is targeted for 2031.

2 World Trade Center sits next to One World Trade Center, currently the tallest building in the United States. It joins other completed towers on the site, including 3 World Trade Center and the residential 5 World Trade Center.

The project is the final commercial tower in the World Trade Center redevelopment. Its progress carries symbolic weight as the city approaches the 25th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. Officials described the start of construction as a demonstration of resilience.

Supertall towers with stepped forms and extensive greenery are gaining attention globally. They offer opportunities to combine high-density commercial space with environmental considerations.

The 2 World Trade Center scheme will be closely watched for how it balances monumental scale with human-centred design in one of the world’s most prominent urban redevelopment sites.