The Liberty State Park Memorial, also known as “Empty Sky,” is a 9/11 memorial dedicated to the state’s victims of the September 11 attacks on the United States. It is located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey, at the mouth of Hudson River across from the World Trade Center site.
The Design and Significance of the Liberty State Park Memorial
The memorial was designed by Jessica Jamroz and Frederic Schwartz and was dedicated on September 10, 2011, a day before the tenth anniversary of the attacks. The design features two stainless steel walls, each 210 feet long, set at an angle to each other, mirroring the shape and orientation of the Twin Towers. The walls are engraved with the names of the 746 New Jersey residents who died in the attacks.
The memorial is located in a peaceful setting with views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere for visitors. The design and placement of the memorial were not without controversy, as a non-profit advocacy group for Liberty State Park initially filed a lawsuit to halt the project due to concerns about blocked views and the location. However, the lawsuit was dismissed, and the memorial was completed in time for its dedication.
The Construction and Dedication of the Liberty State Park Memorial
Construction on the memorial began in May 2009, with a push to complete the project by August 15, 2011, in time for its scheduled September 11, 2011 dedication. The dedication ceremony was a solemn and moving event, attended by dignitaries, families of the victims, and members of the public.
The memorial is open to the public, and there is no admission fee. Visitors can access the memorial by taking the Light Rail to the Liberty State Park station or by driving and parking in one of the park’s lots. The park is open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, and the memorial is open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Additional Memorials and Attractions at Liberty State Park
In addition to the Empty Sky memorial, Liberty State Park is home to several other memorials, including the Liberation Memorial, which commemorates the Holocaust and the role of the United States in preserving freedom and rescuing the oppressed. The park also contains a museum and IMAX-theatre, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience.
The Significance of the Liberty State Park Memorial
The Liberty State Park Memorial is a significant and moving tribute to the New Jersey residents who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks. The memorial’s design, location, and history make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about this tragic event and its impact on the state of New Jersey.
The memorial serves as a solemn reminder of the lives lost and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of such devastating tragedy. It is a place of reflection, remembrance, and healing, where visitors can honor the memory of those who perished and reflect on the enduring strength of the human spirit.
Conclusion
The Liberty State Park Memorial is a powerful and poignant tribute to the victims of the September 11 attacks. Its unique design, serene setting, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the legacy of this tragic event. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the area, the Liberty State Park Memorial is a place that will leave a lasting impression and inspire reflection on the fragility and resilience of the human experience.
References:
– Liberty State Park Memorial Official Website
– Visit New Jersey – Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial
– TripAdvisor – Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial
– Traces of War – Liberation Memorial
– Wikipedia – Empty Sky (memorial)