Nine stations along Jerusalem’s Light Rail were closed starting Wednesday as major construction began on a crucial infrastructure project connecting the existing Red Line with the upcoming Green Line.

The extensive works are expected to last approximately 14 weeks, resulting in significant disruptions for commuters, businesses, and residents across the city.

The Jerusalem Municipality and Israel’s Ministry of Transportation jointly announced the closure and detailed arrangements to manage the disruption. Despite efforts to mitigate impact by providing alternative transport options, many residents and business owners expressed frustration over the extended inconvenience.

Scope and Purpose of the Construction Project

The ongoing project aims to link two vital segments of Jerusalem’s light rail network — the Red Line, which has been operational since 2011, and the Green Line, scheduled to open next year. The connection points are located at Ammunition Hill in the north and near the Nordau intersection close to the Central Bus Station in the city center.

According to the Ministry of Transportation, this project will form Israel’s first integrated operating light rail network, a significant step toward expanding Jerusalem’s public transportation infrastructure. This network aims to improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and support the city’s growing population.

The work also aligns with broader national plans to enhance urban transit across Israel, including upcoming multiple light rail lines in Tel Aviv expected within the next decade.

Service Adjustments and Alternative Transport Options

While the central portion of the line is closed, limited light rail services will continue to operate between Givat Hamivtar and Neve Yaakov in the northern sections, as well as between the Central Bus Station and Hadassah Hospital Ein Kerem in the south.

To compensate for the closures, the Jerusalem Municipality and Transportation Ministry have introduced several alternative transportation measures:

• Free shuttle bus service operating between Givat Hamivtar and the Central Bus Station to substitute the suspended light rail section.
• Increased frequency of existing bus routes serving areas affected by the light rail closure, aiming to absorb the displaced passengers.
• A subsidized bike rental program to encourage environmentally friendly and flexible travel within the city center.

The municipality has also promoted pedestrian-friendly initiatives and organized street events, especially along Jaffa Street, to support local businesses and maintain urban vitality during the disruption period.

Commuters’ and Residents’ Challenges

Despite these alternatives, many commuters reported significant inconvenience, longer travel times, and added frustration due to the prolonged construction period.

Hagar Prince, a Jerusalem resident who recently began working in Ein Kerem, shared with Channel 12 news her difficulties: “I relied on the light rail for my commute, which usually takes half an hour. With the alternative public transport, the trip now takes an hour — double the time. I am angry and disappointed that the work will take so long. It hurts me personally.”

Similarly, Itamar Rubenstein, who works at Jerusalem’s District Court and lives in Ramat Gan, described the disruption as “no small headache,” explaining that navigating the city amid closures is complicated for many. He also indicated he is considering driving but is currently exploring other options while hoping the construction progresses smoothly.

These testimonies reflect the daily struggles of many Jerusalemites who depend on efficient public transport for work, education, and routine activities.

Business Impact and Municipal Support

Businesses along the affected light rail corridor, especially in busy commercial areas like Mahane Yehuda Market, have voiced concern over potential financial losses during the summer construction months.

Ofek Ben Yitzhak, owner of a recently opened fruit store in Mahane Yehuda, told Ynet: “Summer is when people want to go out and enjoy the city, but now they must figure out how to travel around and may end up spending more on taxis. Elderly customers who regularly shop here face particular challenges due to the reduced convenience.”

In response, the Jerusalem Municipality announced measures to support businesses, including easing restrictions on outdoor seating permits to help cafes and restaurants maximize available space. They also pledged to maintain ongoing communication with business owners and implement events to attract visitors despite the disruption.

Project Details and Future Outlook

The Red Line currently serves as Jerusalem’s main light rail artery, connecting northern neighborhoods to the city center and southern districts.

The Green Line, construction of which began in 2018, will extend approximately 27 kilometers from the Hebrew University campus on Mount Scopus in the north to the southern Gilo neighborhood, providing crucial east-west transit across the city.

The project to connect these lines marks a milestone in Jerusalem’s transportation evolution by enabling a seamless network that will enhance mobility, reduce reliance on private vehicles, and support sustainable urban development.

Looking forward, work has also started on the Blue Line, which will link the northern Ramot neighborhood with Gilo in the south, further expanding Jerusalem’s light rail coverage.

Conclusion

The closure of nine light rail stations in Jerusalem for over three months represents a significant short-term disruption caused by essential infrastructure upgrades. While the works will ultimately deliver a first-of-its-kind integrated light rail network in Israel, the transition period presents real challenges for commuters, residents, and businesses.

Alternative transport options, including shuttle buses, increased bus frequencies, and bike rentals, are in place to ease the impact. However, longer travel times and logistical hurdles remain a daily reality for many.

The Jerusalem Municipality has committed to ongoing support for affected communities and businesses throughout the construction phase and encourages public patience and cooperation as the city works toward a more connected and sustainable transportation future.

Source: Times Of Israel

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