After a three-year delay beset with construction and funding problems, the 9/11 Memorial Museum will finally open its doors to the public on May 21.
From May 15, a private opening ceremony will take place followed by a six-day dedication period when family members, first responders and emergency personnel directly affected by the 9/11 attacks will have exclusive entry 24 hours a day free of charge.
An admission fee of $24 for visitors has been announced, although the fee will be waived for the opening day thanks to a donation by publishers Condé Nast.
In order to gain entry for May 21, visitors have to reserve a place at 911memorial.org.
The museum features two main exhibitions located in the foundations of the original world trade center complex.
"In Memoriam’ pays tribute to the nearly 3,000 people killed in the September 11 attacks and also focuses on the earlier 1993 WTC terrorist attack.
The other is a historical exhibition in three parts which explores events leading up to the attacks and the political and social aftermath.
The museum is also introducing volunteer programs and educational resources for school and faith-based groups.
The museum was originally planned to open in 2011 for the 10th anniversary of the attacks but was delayed due to a funding dispute and flooding caused by Superstorm Sandy.
The high ticket price has also caused some controversy, prompting Mayor Bill de Blasio to call for substantial federal funding of the museum."
