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HomeCoronavirusFirst Day of the 911 Memorial Reopening on July 4, 2020 + Video and Photos

First Day of the 911 Memorial Reopening on July 4, 2020 + Video and Photos

First Day of the 911 Memorial Reopening on July 4, 2020

Iconic 9/11 Memorial Reopens on Independence Day after Closing During the Height of Health Crisis in New York City

The National Landmark Reopens Ceremoniously on July 4 for the 9/11 Community before the General Public on July 5

The Memorial’s Operation is Only Possible Through Donations and Support is Needed

Video of my walk along the perimeter of the northern-most tower footprint at the 911 outdoor Memorial today on July 4, 2020.

(New York) July 4, 2020 – The 9/11 Memorial at the World Trade Center reopened today on July 4 to 9/11 family members, the extended 9/11 community and workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Memorial opens to the general public beginning tomorrow, July 5, ending a temporary closure since early March because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The Memorial has new operational hours and safeguards, which include deep cleanings, maintaining social distancing, and requiring visitors and employees to wear masks. The 9/11 Memorial & Museum has launched a major fundraising campaign to sustain the Memorial. The accompanying 9/11 Memorial Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibitions, remains closed. The Museum, through admissions, traditionally provides the main source of revenue to cover operational costs, and in turn, provides free access to the Memorial. Public support is needed more than ever. To donate, please visit 911memorial.org.

As a national heritage site, the Memorial is a physical testimony to the possibility of recovery and renewal in New York City and the United States. It also symbolizes the spirit of healing and unity. The Memorial and the Museum both have been closed since March 13 as the coronavirus pandemic spread across the tri-state area and the nation. A plan to reopen the Museum is underway.

On the morning of Independence Day, 108th New York City Mayor and 9/11 Memorial & Museum Chairman Michael R. Bloomberg, Gov. Philip Murphy of New Jersey, Sen. Chuck Schumer of New York, New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio, and Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, joined 9/11 Memorial & Museum President and CEO Alice M. Greenwald and 9/11 family member and 9/11 Memorial & Museum Trustee Anthoula Katsimatides on the Memorial to honor those lost to the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly those in the 9/11 community who were severely affected by the health crisis.

“Independence Day is a fitting occasion to re-open the 9/11 Memorial,” said Michael R. Bloomberg. “As we celebrate the revolutionary Declaration issued 244 years ago – and the promise of equality for all that we are still working to fulfill – we also honor all who have paid the cost, and borne the burden, of sustaining American freedom. The 9/11 Memorial is a powerful tribute to those we lost, and to the character of our nation. The sense of hope and renewal that we see reflected in the pools is especially important and urgent right now, as the world continues to grapple with the worst public health crisis in a century, and the tremendous hardships and loss of life it has caused. We hope the opening of the Memorial will remind visitors of our capacity to persevere through crisis, unite in common purpose, and come through stronger.”

“The 9/11 Memorial is a tribute to the thousands of lives lost on September 11, 2001, but it is also a symbol of New Yorkers’ unity, courage and determination to build back stronger in the face of adversity,” Governor Cuomo said. “Just like 9/11, the COVID-19 pandemic changed our perspective on the whole world and altered our lives forever. And just like we did nearly 19 years ago, New Yorkers have once again worked together to overcome this unprecedented challenge and rebuild. After more than three months of being closed to the public, I am glad to see this important piece of our state’s history open back up to the public so we may continue to honor those we lost and keep their legacies alive.”

“The very origin of the Memorial and Museum speaks volumes – years of advocacy from the 9/11 community who fought tooth and nail to bring this place to be,” said Alice M. Greenwald, 9/11 Memorial & Museum President and CEO. “In our very short history, we have exhibited time and time again perseverance, adaptability, and above all, dedication. We are no less motivated today in the face of this most recent challenge as we work to reopen this sacred space for the millions who want to honor the memory of the 2,983 people killed in the attacks and the spirit of a city and country that came together to rebuild.”

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum had to manage difficult decisions during its closure to protect its ability to continue future operations and to preserve its mission. The financial impact of the health crisis has been devastating. At this time, renewed public support through visitation and philanthropy is needed to help sustain the Memorial and Museum for generations to come. To donate or sponsor a Memorial cobblestone dedicated to someone affected by COVID-19, please visit 911memorial.org.

New Visitor Guidelines

The Memorial reopens with enhanced health and safety procedures in accordance with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including social distancing requirements and sanitation protocols. Learn more at 911memorial.org. Some key guidelines include:

Hours of operation have been adjusted for the health and safety of our visitors and staff. The Memorial will be open seven days a week from 1:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily.

All visitors are required to wear masks.

Social distancing will be maintained.

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