Jerusalem's Green Line begins service Friday, expanding light rail network

Jerusalem's light rail network is expanding with the launch of the Green Line's first section, L3, on Friday. This development marks a significant step in the city's public transportation development, even after facing months-long delays due to the ongoing war.

The new 7-kilometer line will connect HaTurim station, near the Mahaneh Yehuda Market, to Malha in the southern part of the city. It features 13 stations, 12 of which are new, and is designed to run trains every eight minutes during peak hours. Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion hailed the launch as a "historic day" and a "giant step" toward establishing a comprehensive light rail network, emphasizing Jerusalem's pioneering role in the system.

The Green Line integrates with the existing Red Line (L1) at two key transfer points, creating a more extensive network. This connection aims to provide smoother transfers to Israel Railways and city bus routes. The line serves crucial areas including the International Convention Center, government offices, Hebrew University campuses, and major entertainment and shopping venues. It is also expected to ease access for those traveling from other parts of Israel to sporting events in Malha, allowing them to bypass traffic and parking issues.

Further expansion is planned for December with the L4 line, which will connect the Central Bus Station to Gilo, Jerusalem's most populous neighborhood. An additional extension is scheduled for June 2027. However, like the rest of the system, the new line will not operate on Shabbat, with public transportation in Israel generally ceasing from Friday evening to Saturday evening.

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This is a historic day for the capital and great news for Jerusalem residents and visitors to the city. This is a giant step in the transition from a city that has a light rail to a city with a light rail network. Jerusalem is once again a pioneer, and what began here 15 years ago with the Red Line (L1) is today becoming a network that does not exist in any other city.