The Ministry of Finance's Committee for National Infrastructure has approved a plan to build a residential neighborhood and a commercial center at the Harel Interchange in Mevasseret Zion.
The plan effectively proposes to connect the Jerusalem suburbs of Maoz Zion and Mevasseret Yerushalayim, which are separated by the junction and Highway 1 the main entryways to the Israeli capital.
Netivei Israel National Transport Infrastructure Company is currently building a tunnel to replace the Harel Interchange, and is setting up a public transportation terminal to serve the local residents.
According to the plan, 265 housing units 20% of which will be small apartments will be built, with a commercial front, on the east part of the property. Some 2,000 sq. m. will house public structures and facilities and 2,700 sq. m. will be allocated for undeveloped public land. A free "park-and-drive" lot for 1,000 vehicles and a paid lot for 500 will also be constructed.
A commercial center of 6,000 sq. m. will be built on the street level, with 14,000 sq. m. of offices above. The Israel Land Authority said "the construction of the parking lot will encourage local residents as well as any commuter to Jerusalem to use public transportation and thus help relieve the traffic jams at the entrance to Jerusalem, as well as within the city."
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on August 19, 2015
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