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The Metropolitan Jerusalem Master Plan
The Metropolitan Jerusalem Master Plan
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Ministry of Tourism
June 5, 2016
28th Iyar 5776
Dear Readers,
I hope you enjoy reading this review of the anticipated and exciting
plans for future of Israel’s capital city, Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is a sui generis. Its picturesque natural scenery houses
ancient sites, holy to three religions. It is a city that connects past
and future, a city where historic and modern sit side-by-side. It is a
city that carries with it an important age-old legacy – but also has
a vibrant and vital present. To a great extent, the reflection of all of
Israel can be seen in Jerusalem: green views from the west and desert
landscapes from the east, a rich history merging with technological
progress, and a diversity of population which opens a window into so
many fascinating cultures. Our capital is a magnet for tourism to Israel,
and the government of Israel sees tourism to Jerusalem as a source of
economic development for the city. We see great importance in the city
as a central, important, and meaningful tourist destination.
I invite you to discover what the future holds for Jerusalem, to marvel
at the ingenuity, and to allow the myriad ideas in this book to leave
their impression on you – innovations in transportation, sustainability,
infrastructure, construction, and of course – tourism.
I would like to take this opportunity to invite you to come to Jerusalem,
visit and tour the city, and enjoy the great unique experience it has to
offer, each and every one of you.
Yariv Levin
Minister of Tourism
Ministry of Jerusalem and Heritage
June 5, 2016
28th Iyar 5776
"Jerusalem is built as a closely compacted together city (heve lah
yachdav)" (Ps. 122) – [the Sages said it is] a city that unites all of Israel
in friendship.” (J.T. Hagiga)
The Jerusalem 5800 Plan is a long-term master plan for the year
2050, which outlines a vision for the realization of Jerusalem’s timeless
potential as a cosmopolitan center for culture and tourism. The plan not
only connects the capital city’s past to its present and future, but also
organically integrates Jerusalem with the greenery and lush forests
that surround it.
The planning for the future development of Israel is of paramount
importance and this is specifically true concerning Jerusalem. This
plan advances possibilities for a comprehensive future program for
Israel’s capital.
The approach of the plan is both unique and revolutionary because it
does not focus solely on the localized needs of the city in a vacuum.
Rather, it takes a broader perspective, places emphasis on the wider
Jerusalem region and promotes Jerusalem as a metropolitan center
for its suburban neighbors including Beit Shemesh, Mevaseret Zion,
Maaleh Adumim, Gush Etzion, and others.
This initiative is most welcome and imperative for the future of
“Metropolitan Jerusalem.” I am deeply hopeful that conversations will
continue to move forward amongst members of the Israeli Government
regarding these plans and future of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.
May you have the greatest of success!
Ze'ev Elkin
Minister for Jerusalem and Legacy Affairs