Jerusalem says light rail will go through Emek Refaim

Jerusalem City Hall has released an official map of its plans for the fourth light rail line, a 23-kilometer (some 14 miles) ride that will link the Jerusalem neighborhood of Gilo and Malcha mall in the south of the city, to the northern neighborhood of Ramot.

According to the plan, one spur of the Blue Line will pass through the German Colony neighborhood and replace Emek Refaim Street, a bustling hub of shops and restaurants that has suffered in recent years due to the opening of the First Station entertainment complex nearby.

Some locals have fought the plan, saying the years of roadwork will destroy the quaint neighborhood and its unique character.

In a Facebook post, Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat says he listened to those opposed, but in the end made a “not-simple decision” for the good of the city.

“The train will enliven Emek Refaim, will replace the soot and traffic jams with advanced transportation, green, fast and clean,” Barkat writes. “It will bring many people to the street to the immense benefit of business and be good for shops, residents and those who love the German Colony.

The spur of the Blue Line to pass through the neighborhood will start at the Malcha Mall. It will meet up with the second spur, coming from Gilo and travel down Derekh Hebron, before the two meet up near the First Station complex.

There is currently one line of the light rail, with three more planned.