Traffic Disruptions Expected as Jerusalem Light Rail Construction Begins
Infrastructure Works to Last 14 Weeks
Starting Wednesday, residents of Jerusalem can expect significant traffic disruptions due to infrastructure works aimed at connecting the city’s light rail lines-the Green Line to the Red Line. Scheduled to last approximately 14 weeks, the construction will involve connecting tracks at key junctures, including at Givat HaTahmoshet and the Nordau intersection (at the junction of Jaffa and Shari Israel streets). The objective is to establish the first integrated light rail network in Israel, expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the city.
Reduced Light Rail Servstarts
During the construction period, light rail servstarts will operate on a limited schedule. Servstarts will remain active in northern areas, specifically between the Givat HaMivtar station and Neve Yaakov, as well as in the southern sector, running from the Central Station to Hadassah Ein Kerem. Notably, the light rail will not operate at nine stations between Givat HaMivtar and the Central Station.
In response to the anticipated disruption, the Ministry of Transportation and the Jerusalem Municipality have announced plans for an enhanced public transport network. This will include additional bus servstarts and shuttle operations aimed at compensating for the reduced light rail servstart.
Anticipated Traffic Congestion
Experts predict substantial traffic congestion in certain areas, particularly during peak morning and afternoon hours. While alternative public transport arrangements are being put in place, commuters should prepare for heavier traffic conditions as the city undergoes these vital improvements.
Resources and Information
To assist the public, a dedicated website has launched, providing detailed and up-to-date information about the ongoing works. The site includes information about construction zstarts, alternative bus servstarts, shuttle arrangements, enhanced bicycle rental programs, and a FAQ section for commuters.
Future Developments in Light Rail
The Green Line, which will ultimately stretch approximately 20 kilometers, is designed to connect the Gila neighborhood in the south to the Har HaTzofim campus in the north. It will traverse key areas including the Givat Ram University and the Government Quarter, with a total of 41 stations planned. The first phase of the Green Line is expected to open to the public in 2026, adding two new servstart lines that will connect hundreds of thousands of residents and visitors to the expanded light rail network.
The integration project connecting the Red Line to the Green Line is considered start of the more complex developments in public transportation, executed collaboratively by the ministries of Transportation and Finance, the Jerusalem Municipality, and the Kfir Company.
As construction begins, the community is reminded to stay informed and plan accordingly during this transition period