New Bridge Opens on Route 446, Easing Traffic in West Binyamin

A major milestone has been reached in the infrastructure upgrade project in West Binyamin with the official opening of the new Nahal Modi'in Bridge on Route 446. Traffic has been shifted to the new bridge, which now operates with two lanes in each direction, replacing the temporary detour used during construction. This change significantly improves traffic flow and safety for the tens of thousands of daily commuters using this route.

Construction continues at a rapid pace, aiming to eventually expand the road to three lanes in each direction between Modi'in Illit and the Shilat Junction. Plans also include converting the Shilat Junction into a modern interchange as part of a comprehensive transportation development strategy for the area.

Israel Gantz, head of the Binyamin Regional Council and chairman of the Yesha Council, described the bridge opening as a major benefit for West Binyamin residents and road users, emphasizing the goal to complete the full road expansion and transform the region's transportation reality. Transportation Minister Miri Regev highlighted the government's ongoing efforts to connect Israel from north to south, including settlements in Judea and Samaria, calling the new bridge a significant improvement for Binyamin residents and drivers. She reaffirmed her commitment to continue investing in transportation infrastructure to enhance safety and ease daily life, stressing that as Binyamin and Israel develop, infrastructure must keep pace.