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

Jerusalem is launching the first section of its Green Line (L3) light rail service on Friday, connecting HaTurim station near Mahaneh Yehuda Market to Malha in the city's south. This 7-kilometer line features 13 stations and will operate every eight minutes during peak hours, excluding Shabbat. Mayor Moshe Lion stated, "This is a giant step in the transition from a city that has a light rail to a city with a light rail network." The new line connects major employment, government, education, and sports centers, and links with the existing Red Line (L1) at two transfer points. Future expansions include the L4 line to Gilo in December, an extension to Mount Scopus by June 2027, and the Blue Line between 2029 and 2031, aiming to reduce traffic and improve accessibility.