Empire State Review Team 
New York City, November 7, 2024 — Officials revealed plans today for what will become the world’s tallest green skyscraper, a 1,500-foot tower in Midtown Manhattan designed to set new standards in sustainable architecture. Named “The Beacon,” the project is slated to open in 2030 and will feature net-zero energy systems, vertical gardens, and advanced rainwater recycling.
Architect Renée Jacobs, whose firm won the design competition, described the tower as a “living building.” The structure will include solar panels, wind turbines, and smart systems that optimize energy use. “The Beacon is not just a skyscraper—it’s a statement about what’s possible when sustainability meets innovation,” Jacobs said at the unveiling.
The building will house a mix of residential, commercial, and public spaces, including a rooftop observatory and a sustainable food market. Developers have pledged to allocate 20% of residential units as affordable housing, addressing concerns about accessibility.
Environmental groups applauded the initiative, while skeptics questioned whether the ambitious project would meet its sustainability goals within budget and on time. Construction is set to begin in early 2025, with support from city, state, and private funding.
Mayor Eric Adams called the project a “beacon of hope” for the city’s future. “This is New York leading by example,” he said. “The Beacon will shine as a symbol of our commitment to a greener, more inclusive city.”
