Jerusalem Launches Second Light Rail Line Connecting Key City Hubs

Jerusalem has inaugurated the first segment of its second light rail line, the Green Line (L3), marking a significant expansion of the city's public transportation network. The new line, spanning approximately 7 kilometers with 13 stations (12 of them new), will operate from the Tzurim station near Mahane Yehuda Market to Malha in the southern part of the city. Service frequency during peak hours will be every 8 minutes. This line connects major employment, government, education, cultural, sports, and leisure centers, including the National Institutions, Government Complex, Hebrew University’s Givat Ram campus, the Hebrew University High-Tech Park, the Botanical Garden, Teddy Stadium, the Arena, and Malha Mall. It also serves neighborhoods such as Givat Mordechai, Pat, Gonenim, and Malha.

The Green Line links with the existing Red Line (L1) at two transfer points: Tzurim and near the Central Bus Station and National Institutions behind Navon Station. This integration creates a unified network facilitating easy transfers to Israel Railways and bus lines. The new line will improve access to sports events by enabling visitors from across Israel to reach Teddy Stadium and the Arena without traffic or parking issues, although public transport remains unavailable on Saturdays due to the Sabbath.

Future expansions include the launch of the L4 line in December, connecting the Central Bus Station to Gilo, Jerusalem’s largest neighborhood with over 100,000 residents, providing faster access to Givat Ram and Navon Station. By June 2027, the line will extend to the Mount Scopus campus of Hebrew University via the French Hill and the national police headquarters. Later in 2027, a branch will open to Givat Shaul and Har Nof. Between 2029 and 2031, the Blue Line will begin operation from Gilo through the city center, Har Hotzvim, and Ramot.

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion hailed the launch as a historic day, emphasizing the transition from a single light rail line to a comprehensive network unmatched by any other city. He highlighted the project’s potential to transform urban life by reducing traffic congestion and pollution, connecting neighborhoods and key institutions, and encouraging residents to leave private cars at home. The project is managed by Transportation to Jerusalem and operated by the Kfir company.