Bellwether lower Manhattan office tower 7 World Trade Center has reportedly signed its first tenant. Crain’s New York Business, a local business newspaper, reported earlier today that American Express Financial Advisors has signed a 15-year, 20,000 sq. ft. lease at Silverstein Properties’ new tower.
The original building was destroyed on 9/11. The new property will hold 1.7 million sq. ft. of office space once completed early next year. Neither the building’s developer, Silverstein Properties, nor leasing brokerage CB Richard Ellis would comment on the news. CB Richard Ellis will also keep a small office in the tower.
Even with the American Express lease, there is still 1.68 million sq. ft. of office space left to fill at 7 World Trade Center. Prospects could be strengthened by a package of incentives cleared last month that offer tenants tax exemptions and rent subsidies. The incentives may have already helped lure American Express to the space.