Port Authority Board Chooses Operator Of One World Trade Center Observation Deck
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Final plans for the One World Trade Center observation deck have been approved.
The governors of New York and New Jersey announced Legends Hospitality, which handles Yankee Stadium and Cowboys Stadium, has been chosen to develop and operate the observation deck.
The deck is expected to generate $875 million in revenue for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and will attract some 3.8 million visitors a year.
The Port Authority Board of Commissioners approved the 15-year deal in a vote on Wednesday.
"It provides a major amenity for the millions of people who visit," Port Authority Executive Director Pat Foye told WCBS 880's Peter Haskell.
Unlike at the Empire State Building and at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, there will be no outdoor space.
"Outdoor options were considered and deemed not the be feasible," Foye told Haskell.
Port Authority Board Chooses Operator Of One World Trade Center Observation Deck
"Bringing a world-class observation deck to One World Trade Center will provide millions of New Yorkers and visitors from across the region and around the globe with an unparalleled viewing experience of the greatest city in the world," said Gov. Andrew Cuomo.
"People from around the world have watched as One World Trade Center is poised to once again become the anchor of Lower Manhattan," said Gov. Chris Christie. "Tourism has been the backbone of our bistate region for many generations, and this observatory will be among our region's premier attractions that will draw tourists from around the world who want to experience the best that our bistate region has to offer."
The new enclosed observatory will offer panoramic views of the city and will occupy three floors. It is expected to open in 2015.
In addition to the observation deck, there will be a restaurant and gift shop. Officials said the five dedicated elevators will reach the deck from the lobby in about 60 seconds.
"The entire experience will feature cutting-edge, multi-media exhibits and interactive displays," said Port Authority Deputy Executive Director Bill Baroni.
The building is already the tallest in New York City and once completed, will become the tallest building in the Western hemisphere and the third tallest in the world.
One World Trade Center is slated to open in 2014.
