Letter to Governor George E. Pataki

January 27, 2004

The Honorable George E. Pataki
Governor of New York State
The State Capitol
Albany, New York 12224

Dear Governor Pataki:

I am writing to respectfully ask that the 9/11 memorial planned for lower Manhattan be constructed using steel from New York companies. It is my strong belief that the economic ramifications and emotional attachment shared by New Yorkers to the World Trade Center make New York-based companies the most deserving and qualified for the job.

When the terrorists brought down those towers on September 11, they wanted to bring down New York. All New Yorkers share the memories of that horrible tragedy and a determination to rebuild New York and its economy together. We should commemorate the tragic events of 9/11 with steel from New York.

As you know, earlier this month, a design chosen by a panel of 13 architects was released to commemorate the 2001 terrorist attacks and 1993 bombing of the trade center with two reflecting pools and a 1,776-foot glass skyscraper. Cayuga County's Nucor plant manufactures reinforced rods called rebars that are used in sidewalks and building foundations. Other New York companies that make products that could be used for the project include Crucible Steel, a specialty steel manufacturer in Camillus, and Crucible Specialty Metals in Syracuse.

Hiring an in-state company would be a way to create some good out of this tragedy. Many parts of New York have had a tough time getting by since the terrorist attacks. I hope the state will choose New York companies for the job - not just for the economic benefits, but for the emotional healing it will help bring.

I hope you will agree with me that New York companies are uniquely deserving of any opportunities in the construction of the memorial. Thank you for your attention.

Sincerely,

Charles E. Schumer
United States Senator