Jerusalem Approves Over 7,000 Housing Units, Boosts Construction
Jerusalem's city engineer, Yoel Even, announced that the city has surpassed the 7,000 housing unit mark for building permits for the fifth consecutive year. Approximately 4,000 of these permits were for urban renewal projects. In addition to housing, over 3,000 hotel rooms are currently under construction, and the city is actively promoting employment areas. Even shared these insights during a panel discussion at the Globes Israel Real Estate Conference, emphasizing Jerusalem's proactive approach to development.
Even explained that Jerusalem has shifted from a passive body awaiting developers to an active promoter of projects. He stated that his office actively contacts developers to ensure projects progress, a strategy supported by Mayor Moshe Leon. While acknowledging the inherent complexities of planning and construction, Even highlighted that a motivated municipal authority can overcome bureaucratic hurdles and achieve results.
Addressing concerns about the city's changing skyline, Even refuted claims that Jerusalem is solely promoting high-rise buildings. He noted that 58% of planned housing units are in buildings up to ten stories, and about 70% are in buildings up to 21 stories. This approach, he argued, helps prevent urban sprawl into surrounding green areas and preserves the historic city center. High-rise construction is strategically employed in urban renewal zones and employment centers to facilitate mixed-use development and leverage public transportation.
The panel also discussed the critical shortage of professional staff in local planning authorities across Israel, particularly outside the central region. Edith Bar, CEO of the Bloomberg-Segal Center for Local Leadership, stressed the need for significant salary reforms and suggested that public sector roles must also offer a sense of purpose and impact to attract and retain talent. Even echoed this challenge in Jerusalem, noting his department's efforts to recruit and retain employees by emphasizing the meaningfulness of their work.
Finally, Even commented on Jerusalem's high employment rate, with 81% of residents working within the city. He attributed this to Jerusalem's diverse role as a center for government, employment, and services. He also reported a 95% occupancy rate in the city's employment areas, with new transportation links expected to further enhance connectivity with other cities.
