Alstom Citadis 302 039

Location: Derech Yafo (Jaffa Road) at Yafo-Merkaz Station, Jerusalem, Israel
Operator of Vehicle:  Citipass
Date of Photo: August 19, 2011

After many delays during its construction, the Jerusalem Light Rail opened to the public on August 19, 2011.  Thousands came to check out the line on its first day of operation.  However, prior to opening, many were critical of the impact that the light rail construction had on the Jaffa Road, one of the main streets through Central Jerusalem.  Buses were rerouted and many businesses suffered as the construction wore on along this major thoroughfare.  However, the pain was probably worth the gain.  As seen in this photo, the once congested Jaffa Road has become a well utilized pedestrian mall that is far more pleasant for enjoying a meal at one of the many cafes or restaurants along this stretch.  And the light rail itself is highly utilized and the centerpiece of a much improved transportation network for all of Jerusalem.  The road to get there may have been difficult, but the problematic aspects of the construction have been forgotten as time has gone on.

For more photos of the Jerusalem Light Rail, please click here.