Logo
9 out of 11 Articles
A general view of road 16 and it tunnels providing direct access to the southern and central sections of Jerusalem

Israeli Transport Officials Predict 'Ultimate Traffic Disaster' in 5 Years

Israel’s Transportation Ministry inaugurated a new entrance to Jerusalem, Highway 16, which is supposed to help serve 40% of the commuters entering the city every day. The new road, named after the late prime minister Ariel Sharon, cost nearly one billion shekels (nearly $300 million), and opened last week, one year ahead of schedule.

“The new road is great news for Jerusalem,” said Transportation Minister Merav Michaeli. “But we need to face the truth: The real solution to transportation is more complicated, and includes investments in public transportation.”

A new bus line between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv will start running soon using the new highway, a response to some of the criticism about the lack of investment in public transportation in the area.

“The new road is a brilliant solution. Sure, I have some criticism regarding delays in building the intersections connecting it to the city center, but it’s still an unusually efficient solution to entering Jerusalem,” Nissim Peretz, CEO of Israel’s National Transport Infrastructure Company, told media.

“It definitely should be supported by public transportation, but in the suitable places. Light rail, bike lanes, public transportation lanes are all necessary – but inside the city,” he added. (JPost / VFI News)