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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 285-07
August 9, 2007

STATEMENT FROM MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON MEETING WITH 9-11 FAMILY GROUP ABOUT MEMORIAL CEREMONY

"In past years, the September 11th ceremony at the World Trade Center site included allowing family members to descend the ramp to congregate in the footprints to pay tribute for several hours during the day. The Port Authority has informed us that this type of observance cannot safely happen this year because of the volume of construction on the site, and we are in complete agreement. At today's meeting, the families proposed a very limited and controlled level of access to the below grade, and after consulting with the Port Authority, we've been told that this type of access can work. We will work with the Port Authority to allow family members safely descend the ramp in a single file stream that keeps moving into a limited area below grade to pay respects, and to then ascend back to street level.

"As I have said repeatedly, we will not allow any activity on the site that jeopardizes anyone's safety. I have asked the Port Authority for assurances that the plan we come up with is feasible from a safety standpoint and for a high volume of people. We plan to have a moving and dignified ceremony across the street at Zuccotti Park, and to providing everyone a chance to pay their respects."







MEDIA CONTACT:


Stu Loeser/John Gallagher   (212) 788-2958




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