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The Kerem Tunnel allows for a the most unique riding and hiking experience.

The Kerem Tunnel is the first cycle tunnel in Israel and was officially opened in the year 2000 as part of the Jerusalem Ring Path, a 42-kilometer cycle route that circles Jerusalem, the capital city.

http://www.makorrishon.co.il/mumlazim/523585/ נווה פריצקי The tunnel connects the path between Nahal Refaim and Emek Motza. The tunnel’s southern entry point is located in Refaim Park below Ein Laban. While the northern entrance is located in Nahal Ein Kerem about half a km from the Kerem junction.

On Thursday, Jerusalem and Heritage Minister Zeev Elkin, Mayor Moshelion, Avi Baleshnikov, Gihon chairman, and hundreds of cyclists were present at a celebration to officially open the tunnel’s 2.1-kilometer-long length.

Jerusalem’s glorious past was a reason why it was a popular tourist spot in the past. Elkin stated that nowadays along with its rich history the tunnel project encompasses modern day tourism. “The inauguration (of this tunnel project) is a further step in the growth of Jerusalem and it’s transformation into a sought-after city to visit for all kinds of visitors in Israel as well as around the world.”

Elkin who’s ministry spearheaded the project along with Jerusalem Municipality stated that his ministry has invested thousands of shekels every year in the development of Jerusalem’s tourism as well as in creating new activities and ventures which will link the amazing historic past with the the future of Jerusalem. I encourage all cyclists to visit and enjoy the new, well-maintained and modern route that takes in the view of Old Jerusalem.

Elkin’s Ministry Elkin’s Ministry Tourism Ministry, Jerusalem Municipality and the Gihon Corporation all contributed to the project. נווה פריצקי The Jerusalem Development Authority completed the project.

נווה פריצקי Elkin said, “The Kerem Tunnel project will be the central tool for achieving our dream to change the notion of transportation in Jerusalem.” http://www.news1.co.il/ShowArticles.aspx?docId=459025&subjectId=42&ShowAll=True “The tunnel, which is being constructed to connect to Jerusalem Ring Path will join existing paths for bicycles and the ones that will be paved within its areas. It is intended to encourage cycling among the residents of Jerusalem and encourage the green transport revolution in the capital.”

The Kerem Tunnel was originally excavated in 1990 in order to transfer the main sewers of Gihon Corporation towards the Sorek purification facility. This plant is located west of Sorek and is currently used as an infrastructure tunnel.

“The Kerem tunnel project is crucial to realize the vision for changing Jerusalem’s transport system. ”

Jerusalem Mayor Moshe León

The current works include road construction, installation of blowers and advanced electrical and safety systems, in order to ensure that the tunnel is secure for pedestrians to travel through all year round.

The Kerem Tunnel also allows access to unique recreation sites such as the Ein Kerem neighborhood, the biblical zoo and aquarium, along with the historic natural springs of Ein Laban and Ein Haniyeh.