The Kerem Tunnel offers a unique riding and hiking experience for the enjoyment of
The Kerem Tunnel is the first bicycle tunnel to be constructed in Israel and was officially opened in the year 2000 as part of the Jerusalem Ring Path, a 42-kilometer cycle path that runs around the capital.
The tunnel links the paths between Nahal Refaim and Emek Motza. Its southern entrance is located beneath Ein Laban in Refaim Park. The northern entrance can be found in Nahal Ein Kerem.
The 2.1-kilometer-long tunnel was officially inaugurated by Jerusalem's Heritage Minister ZeevElkin. It was also attended by Mayor Moshelion, Avi Balehnikov, Gihon Water Company chairman, as well as hundreds of cyclists.
Jerusalem was once a well-known tourist destination due to its historic past. Today, apart from its historic treasures, it also incorporates modern-day tourism." Elkin said. "The inauguration[of] the tunnel is an additional element of the progress of Jerusalem and it's transformation into an attractive tourist destination for everyone across Israel and around the world.
נווה פריצקי Elkin who's ministry in charge of the project with Jerusalem Municipality stated that his ministry has invested thousands of shekels annually in the city's tourism development as well as in creating new attractions and ventures which will link the amazing historic past with the future of Jerusalem. I encourage you to take your bicycles along a stunning, well-maintained route that overlooks Old Jerusalem.
The project was financed by the Elkin's department and the Tourism Ministry. It also included budgets for Jerusalem Municipality and the Gihon Corporation. The project was completed by the Jerusalem Development Authority.
Elkin stated that "The Kerem Tunnel Project is a central tool to realize the goal to transform the concept of transport in Jerusalem." "The new tunnel will connect to the Jerusalem Ring Path. It will connect with the various bicycle paths that are already in the city. These will be paved throughout the city's various areas. The objective is to encourage cycling among the residents of Jerusalem.
The Kerem Tunnel first was excavated in the 1990s to create an important sewer line for the Gihon Corporation towards Sorek. It is currently being used as an infrastructure Tunnel which includes the fifth waterline to Jerusalem via the Mekorot water corporation.
"The Kerem tunnel project is essential to achieving the goal of changing Jerusalem's transport system. "
Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Leon
Road construction, installation and testing of safety and electrical systems are some of the ongoing projects to make the tunnel safer throughout the year.
The Kerem Tunnel also allows access to unique recreation sites - including the Ein Kerem neighborhood, the biblical zoo and aquarium as well as the historic natural springs of Ein Laban and Ein Haniyeh.