On February 25, New York Governor Hoch announced that American Express will construct a new global headquarters in the World Trade Center Tower 2 in Manhattan. The new building will stand 55 stories tall with a total area of nearly 2 million square feet. Construction is set to begin in the spring of 2026 and be completed by 2031. It is expected to create over 2,000 union construction jobs and generate over $6 billion in economic benefits for New York City.
Hoch pointed out that this project once again proves that New York remains a premier destination for global businesses. She stated that the World Trade Center Tower 2 will not only add an iconic skyscraper to downtown Manhattan but also bring a significant number of high-paying, secure union jobs to New Yorkers, injecting strong momentum into the economy. Official estimates suggest that the construction period alone will bring approximately $5.9 billion in economic benefits to the city and contribute around $6.3 billion to the state of New York.
Mayor Mumdani emphasized that the advancement of the final commercial building in the World Trade Center symbolizes not only the scale of investment but also a recognition of the dignity of union labor and workers. He noted that the project represents thousands of union jobs that can support families, including carpenters, plumbers, and various other skilled construction workers.
CEO of American Express, Stephen Squeri, stated that the new headquarters is a long-term investment in the company’s future, employees, and the downtown Manhattan community, showcasing American Express’s deep commitment to New York, its “home for nearly two centuries.”
The project is located at 200 Greenwich Street, within the 16-acre World Trade Center complex. The building, to be developed by Silverstein Properties on land owned by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey through a long-term lease, will be designed by the internationally renowned architectural firm, Foster and Partners. The building can accommodate up to 10,000 employees, featuring flexible, modern workspaces and boasting over an acre of outdoor terraces and rooftop gardens, offering expansive views of the Manhattan skyline.
American Express has been located at 200 Vesey Street since 1986 and will continue to operate at the current site until the new headquarters is completed.