NYC to Offer Unlimited Sick Leave to Some City Workers Suffering from 9/11-Related Illnesses

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio agreed to provide unlimited sick leave to some city employees suffering from 9/11-related illnesses, giving vital relief to workers who took part in the rescue and recovery effort that followed the attacks, WABC reported this week.

Thousands of first responders, building and trade workers and volunteers demonstrated extraordinary resolve over the course of nine months to rebuild the World Trade Center and in other relief efforts, but many did so at great personal cost because they were exposed to dangerous toxins during that time.

This new leave policy will apply to members of two EMS unions and DC 37, the city’s largest union of municipal workers, WABC reported. De Blasio made the announcement hours after union leaders and first responders rallied on the steps of City Hall.

In the coming years, visitors will see a new dedicated space called the 9/11 Memorial Glade developed on the Memorial plaza immediately west of the Survivor Tree. This space will pay tribute to those who are sick or who have died from 9/11-related illnesses.

The design includes multiple elements of rough stone lining a pathway which will draw in thousands of visitors each day. The rough nature of the large stone elements captures on a significant scale the strength and rugged character of the people it will commemorate. There will be a pathway that goes through the glade where there will also be space for reflection.

Currently, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum is finalizing the details of this project with stakeholders from the community at-large, including 9/11-health advocates and providers, 9/11 family members, first responders and lower Manhattan residents. This group will continue to provide meaningful guidance as details of this the dedicated space is finalized.

For more information on the Memorial Glade and our work to remember and honor those affected by 9/11 illnesses, please click here.

By 9/11 Memorial Staff