Tel Aviv's Kakol Bridge Repair Finishes Early, Traffic Shift Planned for August 22

The first phase of repair work on the Kakol Bridge in Tel Aviv has been completed ahead of schedule, allowing the west-to-east traffic flow to reopen earlier than expected. This bridge is part of Highway 20, also known as Ayalon Highway, a major route in central Israel. The repair involves replacing expansion joints as part of comprehensive maintenance efforts.

Starting at 11:30 p.m. on Saturday, August 22, the second phase will begin, shifting the closure to the opposite direction. East-to-west traffic on the Kakol Bridge will be blocked until 6:00 a.m. on Friday, August 28. Despite the bridge closures, the Ayalon Highway lanes themselves will remain open throughout the repair period.

Traffic adjustments include prohibiting left turns from Ayalon North exit to the Kakol Bridge and from eastbound routes to Ayalon South. Right turns from Ayalon North exit to Kakol Boulevard will still be allowed. A safe pedestrian crossing will be maintained on the southern part of the bridge. The work is coordinated with the Israel Police and supervised by traffic inspectors, with heavy congestion expected. Drivers are advised to plan ahead, use alternative routes, and rely on navigation apps like Waze.

Public transportation routes and station locations in the area will also be modified during the repair period. The project is managed by the Ministry of Transportation and the Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality through Netivei Ayalon company. Officials have promised to notify the public if the second phase finishes earlier than scheduled.