World Trade Center Transit Hub

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The arched, elliptical structure - the Oculus - is approximately 350’ long, 115’ across at its widest point and rises to a height 96’ above grade at its apex. The structural steel ribs that form the Oculus extend upward, like outspread wings, to form a pair of canopies that rise to a maximum height of 168’ above grade. Access into the Oculus is provided through two entrances located at the east and west nodes of the building’s central axis at Church and Greenwich Streets respectively. The entrances open onto symmetrical stair landings with cylindrical glass elevators. From this level, visitors descend approximately 22’ to the Upper Concourse level where the elliptical interior space opens to its full dimensions, and where visitors have access to the MTA 1, R and E subway lines, Towers 2, 3 and 4, as well as retail galleries. From the Upper Concourse, visitors descend another 20’ via escalators, elevators and stairs to the Concourse level. This level is the main retail level in the Hub and offers pedestrian connections to the Fulton Street Transit Center to the east, the PATH Hall and Brookfield Place to the west, and Liberty Street to the south. From the Concourse level – 160’ below the apex of the 330’ long Oculus operable skylight - visitors will be able to look up at a column-free, clear span. Although suggestive of motifs from many traditions, the form may be summed up, according to Calatrava, by the image of a bird released from a child’s hands.

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