Jerusalem's L3 light rail line opens, creating city's first interconnected network

Jerusalem's light rail network has expanded with the opening of the L3 segment, a key part of the Green Line project. This new section connects Haturim to Malha Mall, marking a significant milestone as it creates the city's first interconnected light rail system.

The L3 route spans seven kilometers, incorporating 12 new stations. It runs west from Haturim, passing through the Central Bus Station and Navon rail station, before heading south towards the Knesset and Hebrew University's Givat Ram campus. The line continues to Teddy Stadium and Pais Arena, concluding near the Malha Mall and the growing Gav Yam tech park. For Jerusalemites, this means the ability to transfer between lines for the first time, a convenience long awaited after years of construction.

The launch was celebrated with city-wide yellow-themed decorations, including balloon arches and lemon-flavored treats. Dignitaries present included Transportation Minister Miri Regev, Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich, Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion, and Cfir CEO Oren Cohen. Passengers expressed satisfaction with the new service, with one rider noting its reliability and convenience for reaching Malha.

However, the opening comes after significant delays. Globes reported that the L3 phase opened a decade later than initially planned, with earlier projections anticipating the entire Green Line's completion by 2025. Construction, which began after the project's approval in 2016, faced further setbacks due to rounds of conflict with Iran. Residents in affected areas like Givat Mordechai, Pat, and Jaffa Road have endured years of construction, detours, and disrupted access to businesses.

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It’s very reliable and convenient, and I don’t have to worry about missing my bus because, you know, it actually comes on time. Getting to Malha is a breeze now.