"The rebuilding is advancing well and swiftly"

While there have been missteps, inevitable in an undertaking of this size and complexity, the rebuilding is advancing well and swiftly. What we need now is not a counterproductive dose of second-guessing from the sidelines or unfounded hysteria in the headlines. Instead, we need a forceful recommitment to the renewal efforts that are underway both on and off the World Trade Center site.

As Gov. Pataki and Mayor Bloomberg have eloquently articulated, we must ensure that lower Manhattan emerges better than ever. Our city, the nation and the world deserve nothing less.