JNF Opposes Major Expansion Plan for Beit Shemesh Over Environmental Concerns

The regional planning committee is set to review a large-scale expansion plan for Beit Shemesh in the Judean foothills, proposing development east of Highway 10 on sensitive green spaces. The Jewish National Fund (JNF) opposes the plan, arguing that the city can grow to over 550,000 residents without harming these valuable natural areas. The dispute centers on a proposal to cross Highway 10 and develop approximately 980 dunams of green land, including neighborhoods V'2, V'3, H, and an additional 160 dunams along the corridor.

Analysis shows the difference between the original plan (Beit Shemesh/3000) and the JNF's environmental alternative is minimal: about 3,000 housing units or roughly 4.8% of the total new housing proposed. The original plan anticipates 111,474 housing units and 569,669 residents, while the JNF alternative projects around 553,000 residents. The JNF emphasizes that this small gap undermines the argument that crossing Highway 10 is essential to meet population targets.

The JNF also challenges the transportation rationale behind the plan. Planners claim a future light rail along Highway 10 requires development on both sides, but the JNF contends that adding 3,000 units does not justify such infrastructure. They warn that due to topography and a neglected stream channel, Highway 10 cannot become a continuous urban street, which would isolate the new area and severely damage the protected Judean Hills environment.

The JNF clarifies it supports Beit Shemesh's growth and its development into a strong, independent city but stresses the importance of preserving the green spaces. The planning committee's upcoming decision will determine whether the expansion proceeds as proposed or adopts the more environmentally sensitive alternative.