The new 9/11 memorial plaza opened to the public this morning in New York. For the past decade, officials kept the area, better known as “ground zero,” closed off to visitors after the collapse of the World Trade Center.
Two reflecting pools now sit in the WTC footprints and a bronze plaque around the edges lists the names of the nearly 3,000 people who died that tragic morning. Electronic directories are on hand to help locate names of lost loved ones. Admission is free, but guests will need to pass through tight security and make reservations in advance.
The plaza opened to the families of the victims yesterday, on the 10th anniversary of the deadly terrorist attacks.
The museum portion of the memorial is expected to open next year.
Sarah Muller