From the Groundbreaking, August 2nd, 2004

	“By providing an opportunity for one of the world’s foremost financial service institutions to increase its commitment to New York, the Bank of America Tower at One Bryant Park already is making an important contribution to New York and demonstrates to the world the vitality of our city,” said Douglas Durst, co-president of The Durst Organization. “We look forward to a long, mutually satisfying relationship and to creating not just a spectacular visual experience, but also the most environmentally responsible building possible.”
“The new Tower – which will stand as one of the world’s most environmentally responsible high-rise buildings – is a shining example of how you can create jobs while also protecting the environment,” Governor Pataki said.  “I want to commend the Bank of America and The Durst Organization for their commitment to New York.  This project will not only help us reach our goal of creating one million jobs in New York by the end of the decade, it will bolster our efforts to provide the safest, cleanest environment possible for future generations of New Yorkers to enjoy.” The new Bank of America Tower will be situated prominently in the Manhattan skyline, and will represent our strong, long-term commitment to New York City and our customers around the world," said Kenneth D. Lewis, president and CEO of Bank of America. "This new building, in addition to our new Bank of America banking centers, underscores our plan to become an even bigger part of the New York community in the years ahead. We appreciate all that the State and the City of New York have done to make this possible.”
	“I also give enormous credit to our partners in this major project, Douglas & Jody Durst, co-presidents of The Durst Organization,” added Mr. Lewis. "Their shared vision for building a state-of-the-art high-rise office tower – and their shared commitment to developing a property that will meet our requirements for environmental stewardship – have made the Bank of America Tower at One Bryant Park a reality."
	"The magnificent new Bank of America Tower is the latest chapter in the revitalization of Bryant Park and will strengthen New York City's position as the financial capital of the world," said Mayor Bloomberg. "This bold and dynamic project will create nearly 7,000 construction jobs, and over the next 25 years, 3,000 new jobs that will generate more than $1 billion in tax revenue for the City. Our 5-borough economic development strategy is making the City more livable and business-friendly so that businesses locate here, and the creation of this new 52-story building shows that it is working. I would like to thank Bank of America and the Durst Organization for their commitment to this important project and to New York City."