The Tribute in Light began in March 2002 as a temporary installation, but turned into an annual event to memorialize the victims of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Dozens of search lights create two powerful beams that suggest the World Trade Center Twin Towers that were destroyed by terrorists.
Many artists, architects, and engineers have contributed to creating the Tribute in Light.
- Architects John Bennett and Gustavo Bonevardi of PROUN Space Studio proposed a "Project for the Immediate Reconstruction of Manhattan's Skyline"
- Artists Julian LaVerdiere and Paul Myoda proposed a light sculpture called "Phantom Towers"
- Architect Richard Nash Gould proposed the Tribute in Lights memorial to the Municipal Art Society
