Steel Work Begins on WTC Memorial

Once planned to open on September 11, 2009, now the NY Times reports constructions workers "will begin erecting the steel to frame" the World Trade Center Memorial. Mayor Bloomberg, who is the chairman of the National September 11 Memorial and Museum, said, "We’ve worked hard to get the memorial back on track and on budget, and to raise necessary funding from many generous donors. Now we must all ensure it is our collective top priority, so that it’s open by the 10th anniversary.” The design by Michael Arad was chosen in 2004; the plans were altered when estimates came in the $1 billion ballpark. The public has a chance to write messages on some steel beams over the next week and a half.