Haifa Advances 65-Story Urban Renewal Tower Project in Kiryat Eliezer
Haifa's local planning committee recently approved a major urban renewal plan in the Kiryat Eliezer neighborhood, featuring the construction of a 65-story tower, the tallest in northern Israel. The project, named The Gateway and promoted by Shoval Group, involves demolishing four existing four-story railway housing buildings with 218 apartments and replacing them with 618 new residential units across three towers of 65, 51, and 35 stories. The tallest tower will reach 246 meters, surpassing most skyscrapers in Israel, including Tel Aviv's Azrieli towers.
Strategically located at the southern entrance to Haifa's central business district near Dolphin Square, the site connects four coastal neighborhoods targeted for urban renewal. It benefits from excellent public transportation access, including heavy rail, multiple bus lines, and planned new central train station nearby. The development will also include student dormitories, small apartments, commercial space of 8,445 square meters, employment areas totaling 21,860 square meters, public buildings, and an 18-classroom elementary school.
Additional infrastructure plans include an underground parking garage with 520 spaces, expandable to 800, and a maintenance fund of at least 5 million shekels to ensure long-term upkeep. Shoval Group CEO Ishai Rot called the project "strategically important for Haifa and the entire north," emphasizing its role in creating a new city gateway integrating housing, commerce, tourism, and public spaces.
Architect Dr. Iman Tabouni highlighted the project's focus on urban connectivity, green building standards, and community life. However, the plan still requires approval from the regional planning committee due to height restrictions limiting buildings to 22 stories in urban renewal zones. The regional planning office expressed reservations about the proposed heights and suggested that any additional floors be dedicated to public or unique commercial uses, with architectural excellence conditions.
If approved, the 65th floor of the tallest tower will feature a public observation deck and green garden offering panoramic views of Haifa Bay and Mount Carmel. The project remains in early stages, pending government designation as an urban renewal area to secure tax benefits and final regulatory approvals before construction can begin.
