DOWN TIME:Simmons, who rebuilt his Liberty Street penthouse after 9/11, likes living near the WTC site (Tamara Beckwith)
DOWN TIME: Simmons, who rebuilt his Liberty Street penthouse after 9/11, likes living near the WTC site. (Tamara Beckwith)
The words “never forget” ring truer for entrepreneur/activist Russell Simmons than for most people. Ten years after 9/11, the cranes, backhoes and dump trucks just outside his Liberty Street penthouse are a constant reminder of the tragedy but also a reminder of the area’s dramatic rebirth.
Simmons, a man with the means to live anywhere, didn’t feel the urge to depart his neighborhood after 9/11. He chose to rebuild his damaged condo and is proud to call it home today. And he uses his residence for events that promote peace and hope while raising awareness of downtown’s exciting future.
We sat down with Simmons to talk about living downtown, the construction around him, the importance of remembering and why he never wants to leave his penthouse perch overlooking the World Trade Center site.
What do you love about living in this part of downtown?
It’s like being in Dubai without having to travel. Lots of activity and construction, but still a beautiful place — full of promise and change.
Many hotels are being erected, new restaurants. It’s a true neighborhood with a lot of personality and a great community.
What do people think about the area when they visit you?
When people come here, they see change happening, and the progress is exciting to see. I’ve had various politicians visit me and have had many fund-raisers with high-profile people, as well.
Prior to 9/11, some of us would go up on the roof and look at the World Trade Center. Still today, I will bring people on the roof, whether it’s the Rev. Jesse Jackson or Rabbi [Marc] Schneier.
What does it feel like living with all this construction right outside your door?
It’s actually exciting to witness the transformation of a community. It used to be a place of just business, where people came and went. Now, people stay — and it is filled with a sense of energy and change that is thrilling to see.
Also, I want people to know I’m here and not leaving. Hopefully, this will encourage more people to do the same.
I feel for each individual and family affected by 9/11. This area is a landmark of all of the suffering that occurred. Now, with the rebuilding of Ground Zero, we can move forward as a family by showing our support and our love. I encourage as many people as I can to visit or move to the neighborhood; that will help build strength for the community.
What are some of the ways you’ve seen your neighborhood change recently?
The weekends used to be empty. Now, they are filled with people going to the movie theater, biking and jogging in the park or just hanging out by the water. It has become a beautiful neighborhood, and I am so fortunate to still live here.
Did you ever think about leaving?
I have absolutely no interest in leaving. The construction doesn’t bother me at all, and I really only hear it when I’m meditating. Living here is a great way to honor those who have died for our country and for me to help promote peace and encourage people to move forward but, of course, never forget.
For more from Barbara K, visit barbarasway.com.
