New York reopens the subway station that was destroyed by the September 11th attack.

New York City has spent $118.8 million to rebuild the Cortland Street station under the World Trade Center. The ceiling had to be completely rebuilt after parts of the World Trade Center fell. The tracks also had to be replaced. The new name of the station is Cortland at the World Trade Center.

The first train to arrive at the platform of the rebuilt station was greeted with cheering and rejoicing Saturday.

I can't believe that after 17 years, the day that stops again here” says Fideo Molina from the Bronx of New York.

The rebuilt station has a marble mosaic called “Cor” of the artist Ann Hamilton. Its work includes texts from the 1776 Declaration of Independence and the UN Human Rights Declaration.

“We have really worked with intensity over the past three years to rebuild the station at this very symbolic and unique location in New York. Artwork is spectacular. It is a fitting honor for those who lost their lives on September 11,”, says Andy Byford of the Metropolitan Transport Agency.

The renovation began late because it was working in the area on earth that was destroyed in the 11 September terrorist attacks.

But the project ended in time to mark the 17th anniversary of the worst terrorist attack in the United States. Over 2 thousand, 700 people lost their lives, and thousands of others were injured when the two planes hit the centre and overturned twin towers. Walter Matusa's father was killed in the North Tower when Walter was only 10 years old.

Son of a September 11th attack victim

It's great to be here and take pictures of the sign of the World Trade Center”.

Transport officials say Cortland at the World Trade Center is not just a new station, it is a symbol of the people's determination not only to rebuild but also to improve the entire area around the Centre. / VoA