KKL Launches Unprecedented $190 Million Development Plan for Southern Israel
The Jewish National Fund (KKL) board approved a major investment plan on Wednesday to boost development in the Lachish region, western Negev, Beersheba metropolitan area, and southern cities including Eilat, Dimona, and Kiryat Gat. The initiative, proposed by KKL Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky, allocates approximately 190 million shekels for environmental projects, infrastructure, public spaces, and land preparation in southern communities.
KKL will invest 57 million shekels to establish three "KKL Excellence Centers" in Eilat, Dimona, and Arad, alongside 30 million shekels to encourage settlement in southern cities and 8 million shekels for cultural events over the next three years. A historic 80 million shekels will be directed to regional councils including Lachish, Yoav, Be'er Tuvia, Shafir, and Nahal Sorek for local and regional projects in open spaces.
Additional funding includes 25 million shekels for strategic projects in Bnei Shimon and Lahav councils, 52 million shekels for the Beersheba metropolitan area, and about 40 million shekels specifically for Beersheba city, focusing on developing Israel's largest bike park and educational excellence programs. The board also approved a third funding phase of 32 million shekels for the Central Arava and Eilot councils to support land preparation for housing and agriculture, rural roads, and demographic growth initiatives.
KKL will allocate 2.65 million shekels annually from 2026 to 2028 for Zionist cultural events across southern municipalities, totaling around 8 million shekels. Furthermore, 30 million shekels over three years will promote settlement by supporting mission-oriented groups and preparatory program graduates in southern cities such as Sderot, Ofakim, Netivot, Arad, Dimona, and Mitzpe Ramon.
Chairman Ostrinsky emphasized the comprehensive national vision for the south, stating, "These decisions reflect our deep commitment to southern Israel, the Lachish and Negev communities, and the Arava. For the first time, we see the entire south as one large national mission. The scale and integration of these efforts demonstrate our understanding that demographic growth requires a multifaceted approach. These plans were developed in full dialogue with local leaders and communities, reflecting our strong trust in their leadership. KKL is here for the residents of the south, now and in the years ahead. Strengthening the south is not just about infrastructure; it is about building the future."
