New Mega-Parking Lot and Free Shuttles Launch Near Tel Aviv

A large transportation complex, featuring a 3,500-space parking lot and free electric shuttles, will open in southwest Rishon LeZion on Sunday, October 15, following the Sukkot holiday. The facility is designed to alleviate traffic congestion by allowing drivers coming from the Shfela and southern regions to park their private vehicles and continue to Tel Aviv and its surroundings via the new service.

The complex includes 350 charging stations for electric cars and 500 bicycle parking spots. Four dedicated shuttle lines will operate from the lot on a special public transport lane, bypassing traffic jams and providing quick access to Tel Aviv's commercial, employment, and leisure centers. Shuttles will run every five minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes otherwise, operating Sundays through Thursdays from 6:00 AM to 10:45 PM. Each shuttle is equipped with 44 seats, Wi-Fi, and charging outlets.

This Rishon LeZion facility is the second phase of the "Fast Lanes" project, with the first part opening in Shapim in April, offering 7,000 parking spaces and five shuttle lines. According to Ayalon Highways, the project's operator, the Shapim section handles 10,000 people daily, though its impact on the heavy traffic between Shapim and Tel Aviv has not yet been significant, despite an 8 billion shekel investment.

The transportation complexes in Rishon LeZion and Shapim are operated by "Nativ La'ir" through "Dan Ne'ativim." Orly Stern, CEO of Ayalon Highways, stated that 2026 will be remembered as the year significant change in public transportation perception began in Israel, with this project offering a viable alternative to private cars. Assaf Regev, CEO of "Nativ La'ir," highlighted the collaboration and shared goal behind the new transport hub.

In 2027, the fast lanes will also be opened to high-occupancy vehicles (3+ passengers) traveling for free. A unique technological system will manage automatic passenger counting to classify vehicles, though initial trials showed less than 90% accuracy. Private cars not meeting occupancy requirements will be able to use the lanes for a fee of up to 107 shekels per segment, depending on congestion.