The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has issued a detailed travel advisory for the World Trade Center campus ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks. Temporary security fencing, street closures, and transit adjustments will affect pedestrians, drivers, and subway riders from this weekend through Sunday, September 13, 2026.
The most restrictive period runs from 10 p.m. ET on Thursday, September 10, until 3 p.m. ET on Friday, September 11. During those hours, public access to the streets and sidewalks inside the secured campus area is fully closed.
Anyone planning to visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, work in the area, or simply pass through Lower Manhattan needs to adjust routes and allow extra time.
What Security Changes Are Happening at the World Trade Center Campus?
Security fencing goes up around the perimeter of the 9/11 Memorial and Museum beginning this weekend and remains through Sunday, September 13. Designated pedestrian entry points stay open along the eastern edge of the secured area on Greenwich Street, between Liberty and Vesey streets.
Key restrictions include:
- Full public closure of streets and sidewalks within the campus from 10 p.m. Thursday, September 10, until 3 p.m. Friday, September 11
- After 3 p.m. on September 11, everyone entering through the designated points must pass security screening
- Liberty Park remains closed to the public all day on Friday, September 11
Visitors, office workers, and daily commuters should expect modified walking routes and temporary barriers throughout the period. The Port Authority notes that travel information can change and will issue further updates if needed.
How Does This Affect Subway and PATH Service on September 11?
On Friday, September 11, the MTA New York City Transit 1 subway line will skip the WTC Cortlandt station in both directions. Riders should use nearby stations instead.
Recommended alternative stations and lines include:
- 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, E, J, R, and W trains
- Stations at Cortlandt Street, Fulton Street, Rector Street, and Chambers Street
PATH service continues on its regular weekday schedule. Access to PATH trains inside the Oculus Transportation Hub remains unaffected.
If you normally exit at Cortlandt on the 1 train, plan an extra few minutes to walk from one of the nearby stations. The Oculus itself stays open for PATH and other connections.
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What Drivers Need to Know About Road Closures and Traffic Holds
One right lane on northbound West Street (Route 9A) will close between Liberty and Vesey streets as early as Tuesday, September 8, and remain closed through Friday, September 11.
In addition, temporary traffic holds will take place at Port Authority vehicular crossings at exactly 8:46 a.m. and 9:03 a.m. on September 11. These brief holds mark the moments each Twin Tower was struck.
Drivers should build extra time into any trip that crosses the George Washington Bridge, Lincoln Tunnel, Holland Tunnel, or other Port Authority facilities during the morning of the anniversary.
Practical Tips for Navigating the Area This Week
Plan ahead and treat the campus like a restricted zone during the peak period.
Helpful steps include:
- Check the latest Port Authority updates before you leave home or work
- Use the designated Greenwich Street access points if you need to reach the Memorial plaza
- Allow at least 15–20 extra minutes for walking detours and security screening after 3 p.m. on September 11
- If you take the 1 train, switch to the 2/3 or A/C at an earlier stop to avoid the skipped station
- Keep PATH as a reliable option for New Jersey–Manhattan trips since the Oculus access stays open
- Avoid driving on West Street if possible; use alternate north–south routes
Many regulars who work in the towers already know the rhythm of anniversary-week security. First-time visitors or tourists should treat the fencing and closures as temporary and follow posted signs. Security personnel are present and can direct you if you feel unsure.
Why These Measures Are Put in Place Every Year
The anniversary draws large numbers of people for commemorative events, private gatherings, and quiet reflection at the Memorial. The temporary fencing and controlled access points protect the solemnity of the day while keeping the surrounding campus functional for workers and transit users.
The Port Authority has refined these plans over many years. The combination of physical barriers, timed closures, and clear alternate transit options keeps the area secure without completely shutting down Lower Manhattan.
Bottom Line for Commuters and Visitors
Security fencing and access changes begin this weekend at the World Trade Center campus and run through September 13. The strictest closures last from 10 p.m. on September 10 until 3 p.m. on September 11. The 1 train skips WTC Cortlandt that day, one lane of West Street closes, and brief traffic holds occur at Port Authority crossings at 8:46 a.m. and 9:03 a.m.
Use the Greenwich Street entry points, switch to nearby subway stations, and give yourself extra walking time. PATH through the Oculus continues normally.
For the official details and any last-minute changes, check the Port Authority World Trade Center Campus Travel Advisory.
