Message From The Chairman
When Governor Pataki asked me to chair the organization responsible
for rebuilding and revitalizing lower Manhattan, I was honored and
humbled by the opportunity to play a small role in helping the city
I love. From the outset, I recognized that this effort would
require unprecedented coordination among the many diverse companies,
groups and individuals who are stakeholders in Lower Manhattan.
I have derived the greatest satisfaction from the opportunity to
work side-by-side with the talented individuals who serve on the
LMDC board and the dedicated staff that is executing our plans,
led by our outstanding President, Stefan Pryor. I have directed
several major organizations during my career in business and public
service, but I have never encountered such a pervasive spirit of
cooperation or witnessed such an outpouring of support from people
around the world.
The LMDC looks forward to working with all of the many individuals
and organizations affected by this horrendous act of violence, especially
the victims' families. They have sustained the greatest loss, yet
they work through their grief for the benefit of our city and our
country. The permanent memorial to be built on the World Trade Center
site must appropriately remember the sacrifices of those who were
lost, as well as reaffirm the American values that came under attack
on September 11th.
Our success will be measured in many ways, but ultimately we strive
to ensure New York City emerges better than it was before. When
our work is done, New York City will retain its premier position
as the world's financial center, will continue to be a great place
to live, work, and visit, and will become an important center of
remembrance, reflecting the very best of our nation.
John C. Whitehead
Chairman
Lower Manhattan Development Corporation
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