after the attacks, the world financial center underwent a $250 million renovation and expansion project, in conjunction with the construction of a new east-west passageway linking the complex with the world trade center site. the project included a transit pavilion to be built as an extension of the existing winter garden atrium, on the west street side. preliminary plans called for the demolition of the grand staircase, which was the main focal entry point to winter garden and the waterfront, as it connected to the vesey street pedestrian bridge adjacent to the original world trade center. the grand staircase has also been used as an amphitheater; thus, the plans for demolition had outraged residents, who promptly appealed for its preservation in the latest redevelopment plans. the transit pavilion opened in 2013, and is located at 100 west street.