The rebuilding of a functional skyscraper with numerous memorial, symbolic elements seems like the most pro-active way to address this emotional issue. Your 'come out swinging' attitude is exactly what I feel this country and economy need at this time. To erect a smaller building, or even worse, a small-scale structure or simple park would definitely seem like a balking, fearful step backward, even an admission of defeat. On the other hand, to construct a new, functional building, much bigger and better than what stood there before, would seem like the classic American response. We really need to restore the American public's faith in the concept of 'peaceful commerce throughout the world,' rather than threats, bullying and force of war.

The current presidential administration, however, has clearly demonstrated its level of commitment to stimulating either world peace or economic growth.

Furthermore, it seems obvious that big commercial interests and their innate fear of risk are the biggest enemy an approach like yours has at this time. The banks and developers who would fund and underwrite such a project have deep-seated fears of sinking multiple tens of millions into a huge project that in this recessive economy might just turn out to be a giant white elephant. A case in point: The Sears Tower. Here in Chicago, that huge office building was built by the Sears Roebuck Corporation in the 1970's, and since then has never seen over 70% occupancy. In the late '80's it was sold to a Japanese investment company, and to this day, the prohibitive cost of downtown office space coupled with the high cost of maintenance have conspired to keep rent up and occupancy low. In this slow-growth economy, the market just does not favor the construction of huge downtown office buildings, no matter how noble the symbolic cause. And add to that the 'post-911' fear many people have of working in such environments, and most developers will be loath to back such a bold proposal.

I wish it were otherwise. Making any big change or bold statement takes guts. And we really need something impressively positive--like such a constructive feat of engineering--to restore faith in our country's power for good. Not to mention the potential for tourist income, such a building could be a great boon to downtown Lower Manhattan, and a proud testament to the indomitable American (and New Yorkers') spirit. Who knows? Perhaps the federal government could step in with a huge grant for the project.

Have you ever submitted this proposal of yours officially? Did you get a reply? If so, would you mind posting it?