11 The City Entrance Tunnel Project

A joint project of the Ministry of Transportation, Ministry of Finance, Israel Land Authority and Jerusalem Municipality; the works are managed by Eden – The Jerusalem Center Development Company, and the infrastructure works are being carried out by Moriah Jerusalem Development Company.

An opportunity to visit the site of the ongoing underground construction works at the City Entrance Project, which when completed will be the largest business district and transportation hub in Israel, and hear from its managers how it will totally transform the entrance to Jerusalem. This is the largest construction project underway in the country, consisting of 1,500,000 m² that extend across an area of roughly 75 acres, and is likely to add approximately 60,000 new jobs in the city. The project will offer multiple office spaces, commercial spaces, recreational venues, around 2,000 hotel rooms, and public spaces. Over 350,000 people are expected to pass through there every day. There will be an express train to Tel Aviv, two light rail routes, public transportation lanes and bike paths.

The tours will include a brief explanation about the project and entry into the excavated underground tunnels.

The 90-minute tours will be in groups of 20 and participants are asked to arrive 15 minutes before their reserved tour starts so they can be advised of the safety instructions.

Participation is contingent on wearing long pants and closed-back shoes. Before entering the tunnels, participants will be given safety gear, including a hard hat, reflective vest and construction boots. Anyone wearing different apparel will not be allowed to enter the site. Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or another adult authorized by their parent. Children under the age of 12 will not be allowed to take part in the tours.

The tours at the construction site are not accessible to persons with a disability or gait disturbance. Pregnant women will not be allowed to enter the tunnels. It is advisable to use public transportation to reach the designated meeting place.