A Jerusalem Administrative Court has rejected a petition seeking to block the construction of the Blue Line of the Jerusalem light rail, which will be servicing the Emek Refaim area of the city. In addition, the court ordered the petitioners to pay all legal costs incurred by the city in defending itself against the petition, amounting to NIS 30,000.

The court rejected the petition on Monday, 10 Shevat, explaining there can be no doubt there have been adequate time and forums for anyone and everyone to voice their objection, adding the court does not accept the contention that City Hall has not heard the voice of the people.

The court was also not persuaded by the arguments seeking to show the negative aspects of advancing the line through Emek Refaim.

The court is aware the decision to expand with the Blue Line followed a long tedious process that including public hearings and the experts weighing the interests of many population sectors as well as merchants and store owners in the affected area. Ultimately, the court feels the light rail is a quieter, cleaner and an environmentally friendly option that the buses providing service today.

Using the main line as an example, the court was also told that as the rail is developed, the area will receive a facelift and pedestrian malls will open and there will be an overall improvement in quality of life as one sees today along Jaffa Street.

The Blue Line was overwhelmingly accepted by residents of Emek Refaim along with neighboring residents of the German Colony and others, who view the light rail as a welcome transportation alternative as well as being environmentally friendly and easily accessible.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)