Developers dig deep for WTC Memorial.

The city's powerhouse developers have dug deep to help the World Trade Center Memorial Foundation surpass a $300 million milestone.

Forest City Ratner, Related, Larry Silverstein and the Moinian Group each chipped in $5 million, with Brookfield adding $3 million and Tishman Construction and Vornado contributing $2 million each.

Other major contributors announced this week by WTC Memorial Foundation chairman Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg--who personally donated $15 million--included the LeFrak and Rudin families and the Rockefeller Group. "I want to recognize the extraordinary generosity of our major donors. These individuals, corporations, and foundations have made a remarkable commitment to building this permanent piece of our history. Thanks to their early support, we are well on our way to funding the construction of the Memorial and Museum," said Mayor Bloomberg said.

Over $165 million was raised in approximately six months towards the Foundation's $350 million fundraising campaign.

"Building the World Trade Center Memorial and Museum is an opportunity for people to come together and create a lasting legacy for our country and the world," added Bloomberg. "We have seen tremendous support from people of all ages and all backgrounds, who are doing their part to make this tribute a reality. Every contribution counts whether it comes from schoolchildren raising money from a bake sale or through employee giving programs.

The Foundation's private fundraising goal of $350 million includes funds to support capital and planning costs, as well as an initial endowment to support operations once the Memorial and Museum open.

Construction of the Memorial began in March 2006 with preliminary work to cover the original box beam columns that outline the perimeters of the Twin Towers. In August 2006, heavy construction work began to build the footings which will hold up the Memorial, Museum, and Plaza. Work on the footings is expected to be complete in the third quarter of 2007.