- American Express will build and own the 2 World Trade Center tower, marking the final stage of World Trade Center redevelopment.
- The 55-story, 2M KSF office tower will serve as American Express’ future global headquarters, with move-in expected by 2031.
- The project is forecast to generate $5.9B in economic impact and create over 3,000 jobs in New York.
- The move reflects a broader trend of top-tier tenants seeking new, trophy office assets amid a Lower Manhattan market rebound.
Amex Sparks Final Office Tower
American Express has reached an agreement to build and fully own the 2 World Trade Center tower in Lower Manhattan. CoStar reports that the financial services giant will relocate its global headquarters to the planned 55-story trophy asset, unlocking the final major piece of the World Trade Center redevelopment led by Silverstein Properties. Designed by Foster + Partners, the project is set to break ground this spring, targeting completion by 2031.
Major Milestone for Redevelopment
This deal allows the last office tower at the 16-acre World Trade Center site—2 World Trade Center—to proceed. The fully electric tower at 200 Greenwich St. will offer nearly 2M KSF and over an acre of outdoor terraces and gardens. Silverstein Properties will develop the asset on Port Authority land via a long-term ground lease. American Express will remain at its current 200 Vesey St. headquarters until the new building is ready.
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Economic and Market Impact
The redevelopment will create more than 2,000 union construction jobs and 3,200 total positions. The project will generate an estimated $5.9B for New York City’s economy.
American Express’s decision reflects a growing trend among well-capitalized firms. More companies now choose to own their headquarters. JPMorgan Chase set a recent example with its tower at 270 Park Avenue. At the same time, trophy assets across the complex continue to command record rents, underscoring strong demand for premier office space. With this deal, the World Trade Center completes its office vision. The complex now includes Two World Trade Center alongside One, Three, Four, and Seven World Trade Center.
Mixed-Use Growth in Lower Manhattan
The announcement comes as Lower Manhattan’s office leasing volume sees a strong post-pandemic rebound, according to the Alliance for Downtown New York. Residential conversion and population growth continue to transform the district into a mixed-use hub, with office tenants ranging beyond finance into technology, media, and fashion. The World Trade Center redevelopment now reaches a new milestone, strengthening Lower Manhattan’s position as a 24/7 destination.
