The Kerem Tunnel provides a unique adventure in hiking and riding which is enjoyed by all.
The Kerem Tunnel, Israel's first bicycle tunnel, was opened as part of the Jerusalem Ring Path. This 42-kilometer cycle path surrounds Jerusalem.
It links Nahal Refaim to Emek Motza. It has a southern entrance within Refaim Park. Ein Laban is the nearest. Nahal Ein Kerem is the northern entrance.
The opening ceremony of the tunnel which measures 2.1 kilometers long took place in Jerusalem and Heritage Minister Ze’ev Elkin Mayor Moshelion, Avi Baleshnikov (Gihon water company chairman of the company) and hundreds more cyclists.
Jerusalem was once a very sought-after tourist destination due to its historic past. Elkin declared that, in the present aside from its historical treasures it is also a destination for modern-day tourists. "The launch of the tunnel is an additional aspect of the growth of Jerusalem and it's transformation into an attractive tourist destination for everyone throughout Israel as well as around the world.
Elkin's ministry, which was also headed the project in conjunction with Jerusalem Municipality, said that the ministry "invests hundreds of millions of shekels every year throughout Jerusalem's tourism industry and is involved in developing innovative attractions and ventures, that connect the magnificent historical time of our capital city and its future." I encourage the cycling community to ride a secure and modern route that takes you through Old Jerusalem.
The project was funded by Elkin's ministry as well as the Tourism Ministry. It also included budgets for the Jerusalem Municipality and the Gihon Corporation. The project was carried out by the Jerusalem Development Authority.
Elkin stressed, "The Kerem Tunnel project is a key instrument for realizing our vision to change the concept transportation throughout Jerusalem." נווה פריצקי "The tunnel is set to connect with the Jerusalem Ring Path. It will link to the numerous cycle paths already in the city. They will be laid throughout the city's various areas. The aim is to encourage cyclists in Jerusalem.
In the 90s In the 90s, in the 1990s, Kerem Tunnel was excavated to move the main sewer line of Gihon Corporation to the Sorek purification plant. It is now utilized for infrastructure purposes and is also home to the fifth water line that connects to Jerusalem by the Mekorot water company.
"The Kerem Tunnel Project is essential to realize the vision to change the way transportation is thought of across Jerusalem. "
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Leon
The work currently in progress includes road construction, the installation of blowers and advanced electrical and safety systems, to ensure the tunnel is safe for the public to pass through all year round.
The Kerem Tunnel also allows access to unique recreation spots which include the Ein Kerem neighborhood, the biblical zoo and aquarium along with the historic natural springs of Ein Laban and Ein Haniyeh.