Following a prolonged battle, the Jerusalem District
Committee approved the construction of a suspension bridge at
the entrance to the city, for the light- rail system
scheduled to begin running in 2007.
The 330-meter bridge, held up by steel cables attached to a
post extending 106 meters skyward, will pass over the
bustling entrance to the city between Rechov Yaffo and Herzl
Boulevard.
The bridge was designed by Santiago Calatrava, an
architecture of international renown experienced in building
suspension bridges. The plan encountered numerous objections
by area residents concerned the train would run right past
their windows but it was endorsed by city leaders, who hope
it will become a prominent tourist attraction.
Now that the plan has received approval, construction on the
18-month project will go underway as soon as arrangements are
in place. Major traffic disruptions are expected once work
begins.
Jerusalem's light rail project will cost a total of NIS 3
billion ($660 million) and the parameters of the project
remain the subject of debate.
