Israel Launches Tender for 2.5 Billion Shekel Metrobus Network
Israel's Public Transport Authority has approved a tender for a new 2.5 billion shekel ($675 million) metrobus network in the Shefela region, connecting Rehovot to Tel Aviv. The project, managed by Netivei Ayalon, is slated to begin operations in mid-2028, with construction starting in 2025. The 30-kilometer network is expected to serve approximately 110,000 passengers daily, linking Kiryat Ekron, Rehovot, Ness Ziona, Rishon Lezion, and Tel Aviv.
Initially, the system will feature two "blue" lines: one from the Bilu terminal in Rehovot to the Lohamim terminal near Holon and Tel Aviv, and another from Bilu terminal to the Shafririm interchange park-and-ride. A western section of a "brown" line will also launch, running from the Tzrifin terminal to the Ha'Elef complex in western Rishon Lezion. A future eastern section of the brown line is also planned, alongside expanded existing bus routes.
The metrobus lines will operate on dedicated public transport infrastructure with signal priority. The total weekly mileage for all metrobus and supplementary routes is projected to be around 216,000 kilometers.
In response to criticism over delays in selecting vehicle types, the state will not specify a particular bus model in the tender. Instead, the winning bidder will be responsible for procuring rolling stock that meets the tender's requirements, necessitating early agreements with electric bus manufacturers.
