Massive New Neighborhood with 16,000 Homes Approved Near Jerusalem

The district committee has approved for deposit the "Central Quarter" plan in the city of Beit Shemesh, which will establish a new urban district spanning 1,000 dunams. This development is set to include approximately 16,000 housing units, alongside a significant employment complex, commercial areas, educational and public institutions, green spaces, and a public transportation network.

Buildings in the new quarter will reach up to nine stories high, according to the committee's decision. The plan stipulates that the construction of residential complexes will proceed concurrently with the development of the road network, public buildings, and open spaces. Furthermore, a portion of the employment complex will be advanced alongside the first residential complex.

Occupancy of residential units will be contingent upon the completion of public buildings, roads, and necessary development works for each complex. The chairman of the local committee, Shimon Goldberg, welcomed the decision, emphasizing that the phased and integrated development ensures that infrastructure, public services, and employment opportunities will be developed alongside housing.

Goldberg stated that this approach will enable the creation of a high-quality district meeting residents' needs and will connect different parts of Beit Shemesh. He added that the new quarter is a central component of the city's preparation for a population exceeding half a million people and pledged to continue advancing the plan responsibly until its realization.