Reports of a construction project may threaten Tzfat’s Old City as it stands today. Anyone who has ever visited the Old City can attest to the special feeling, to walk the streets that were inhabited by Rav Saadia Gaon, Rav Shlomo Alkabetz, Rav Yosef Karo, the Ari HaKadosh and others.

According to Xnet, which is a subsidiary of Ynet, all this may change as there are plans to construct a total of almost 100 apartments in three terraced buildings. The plan is intended for the entrance to the Old City on the slopes of the valley beneath HaAri Street. Dozens of residents living on the street oppose the plan, explaining it would harm the landscape and it contradicts the city’s master plan. The opponents explain the plan does not comply with the ordinance compelling lower buildings to preserve the integrity of this special area. The opponents presented professional opinions from noted architects including Dr. Gil Har-Gil and Adam Coleman, who previously served as a planner in the northern district. They explain that in addition to causing irreparable harm to the Old City’s character, it will also overload the area transportation infrastructure without offering an appropriate response.

Proponents explain the project on HaAri Street in outside the boundary of the Old City, insisting the additional apartments are necessary.

Mr. Uri Ben-Tzioni, who is responsible for preservation in the northern district, adds the decision may not be that of Tzfat City Hall alone, but his agency and others must rule on the status of many buildings before they can be taken down to permit building 100 apartments.

He feels that the national government should be spearheading a program to preserve and enhance the unique character of the Old City and the necessary funds must be allocated. Ben-Tzioni agrees with officials in Tzfat City Hall, that the national government is doing little to nothing in the way of assisting.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)