Amex breaks ground on new HQ at 2 World Trade Center
American Express hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its new global headquarters at 2 World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. The new American Express Tower will span nearly two million square feet and is expected to open in 2031. The project is projected to create over 3,200 direct and indirect construction-related jobs and contribute approximately $5.9 billion to New York City’s economy.

*this image is generated using AI for illustrative purposes only.
American Express today hosted a groundbreaking ceremony for its new global headquarters at 2 World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. The new American Express Tower will span nearly two million square feet and stand nearly 1,250 feet tall, serving as the final commercial building to complete the World Trade Center campus redevelopment. American Express expects to begin welcoming colleagues to the new building in 2031.
The development is expected to create over 3,200 direct and indirect construction-related jobs in New York City during the duration of the project. An economic and fiscal impact analysis prepared by AKRF estimates the project will contribute approximately $5.9 billion to the City’s economy and $6.3 billion to the New York State economy overall.
Denise Pickett, American Express President of Enterprise Shared Services, highlighted the company’s long history in the area. "For American Express, this project is far more than a new headquarters. It is a reaffirmation of our belief in this city, our commitment to our colleagues, and our enduring connection to the community we have proudly called home for nearly two centuries," Pickett said.
Project Impact and Economic Projections
The ceremony included remarks from several government and industry leaders regarding the project's significance for the region.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Construction jobs created | Over 3,200 direct and indirect |
| Contribution to NYC economy | Approximately $5.9 billion |
| Contribution to NY State economy | Approximately $6.3 billion |
| Building height | Nearly 1,250 feet |
| Total square footage | Nearly two million |
Lisa Silverstein, CEO of Silverstein Properties, noted the milestone's importance. "This is an important milestone for our city, American Express, and Silverstein Properties. But it also symbolizes triumph, and what can be accomplished in this country following what happened here nearly 25 years ago," Silverstein said.
Government and Community Support
Zohran Kwame Mamdani, Mayor of New York City, emphasized the opportunities the project will create. "This is not just a sign of confidence in the future of our city – it is an investment in thousands of good jobs, the local economy, sustainability and the final piece of the rebuilt World Trade Center," Mamdani stated.
Kathryn Garcia, Executive Director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and Kevin O’Toole, Chairman of the Port Authority, discussed the tower's role in fulfilling the promise to rebuild the World Trade Center campus. Gary LaBarbera, President of the Building and Construction Trades Council of Greater New York, highlighted the creation of union careers for the city's workforce.
How will the relocation to the new headquarters impact American Express's operational costs and real estate strategy?
What sustainability features will be incorporated into the tower to align with New York City's climate goals?
How might the completion of the World Trade Center campus influence commercial real estate trends in Lower Manhattan?

































