New Jersey Senate Republicans

09/10/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 09/10/2026 10:20

ICYMI: Amato Calls on Governor to Complete Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial

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ICYMI: Amato Calls on Governor to Complete Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial

Carmen Amato Posted on September 10, 2026

In case you missed it, Senator Carmen Amato, Jr. (R-Ocean) sent a letter to Governor Mikie Sherrill calling for the completion of the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial. Sen. Amato also criticized the State's dismal efforts to maintain the memorial.

An excerpt from the letter reads:

"As a veteran who served our nation, you are aware that Empty Sky stands as New Jersey's official memorial honoring the 746 residents we lost on September 11, 2001. It is a sacred place of reflection for families, veterans, and visitors from across our state and nation. With the 25th anniversary of 9/11 approaching this September, many families are hoping the memorial will fully reflect the dignity, lasting care, and solemn respect that such a site deserves.

To that end, I respectfully ask that your office review the current status of the memorial, including any outstanding design, construction, or maintenance needs, and advise what steps may be taken to ensure the site is fully completed, properly preserved, and maintained for future generations. Certainly, I would be glad to support any efforts needed in the Legislature to help move this forward."

Sen. Amato also expressed his disappointment that the State essentially abandoned its responsibility to properly maintain the Empty Sky 9/11 Memorial, calling it deeply disrespectful to the victims and their families that the Gary Sinise Foundation had to step in and clean up the memorial ahead of the 25th anniversary:

"It is deeply disappointing that the State allowed the Empty Sky Memorial to effectively become abandoned, rather than fulfilling its responsibility to properly maintain this sacred place. The fact that it took a private foundation to step in and clean up the memorial ahead of the 25th anniversary is an embarrassment and a disservice to those we lost and the families who continue to carry their memory. We owe them better than neglect."

You can read the full letter here.

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