Ask anyone currently living in the United States, and it’s likely that everyone will agree that the attacks on the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001 may be the most tragic event to take place on U.S. soil in the last 20 years. Countless lives were lost, a fear of terrorism sharply increased and two of the most iconic buildings on the New York City skyline were completely destroyed.

The nation was forever changed on that fateful day 13 years ago.

Even though the World Trade Center (WTC) could never be replaced, various people had the same idea – to rebuild it in a bigger, sleeker and more strikingly beautiful manner. Beginning soon after the attacks, contests were held where young and professional architects alike would submit blueprints and designs for towers to replace those destroyed on 9/11. One lucky winner would have their ideas that were written on paper built in real life.

Towers One, Four and Seven have been completely rebuilt, with towers Two, Three and Five being either under construction or still being planned. Towers One and Seven were designed by architect David Childs, and Tower Four was created by Fumihiko Maki.

The reconstruction of the World Trade Center Complex, especially the completion of One WTC, has provided a boost in national morale, proving that even at one of our lowest points, together as a country the United States can bounce back from anything.

Construction of One WTC began on April 27, 2006 and was completed on May 10, 2013. Those going on the 2015 New York City trip next year will be lucky enough as to see the recently completed One WTC building, and to see the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. Construction will still be ongoing at the WTC, so students will be able to see how these soon-to- be skyscrapers are planned and built.

“I think it’s extremely important for us to go there,” says government teacher, Miss Theresa Leonardi, who will be organizing the upcoming trip. “Particularly because this generation of kids isn’t very familiar with the events as you were all toddlers when the 9/11 attacks happened. It’s a sort of legend to most kids nowadays.”

“When you stand there at the memorial and see those waterfalls and see those names and just how huge the whole thing is, it makes it much more – alive.” says T.L. “Standing on site is one of the most moving and most touching things you will probably ever experience. With the meaning and history behind it all, the World Trade Center and Ground Zero just can’t be missed.”

With the reconstruction of the WTC, many Weedsport students, and frankly, people in the nation, will have something to look forward to seeing and hearing about. The new and upcoming WTC is said to be absolutely awe-inspiring and beautiful, and this will likely be proven to be true as southern Manhattan will see a revitalization in the next few years.