Construction Begins on Jerusalem Khan Station, Marking Major Rail Expansion

 

JERUSALEM — Construction has officially begun on the new Jerusalem Khan railway station, a critical step in extending the Tel Aviv–Jerusalem high-speed rail line directly into the heart of Jerusalem. This milestone is part of Israel’s broader 2040 railway development plan, designed to enhance national connectivity and urban accessibility.

The 5.5-kilometer extension will include two underground stations:

• Jerusalem Merkaz, on Jaffa Street

• Jerusalem Khan, in the German Colony near tourist sites like Bell Garden and the Old City

Both will be constructed approximately 60 meters underground, following the successful design of the existing Yitzhak Navon station.

Transportation Minister Miri Regev emphasized the project’s significance:
“The high-speed rail extension will make it faster and easier for residents and visitors to reach the city center in a convenient and sustainable way.”

The Khan Station will connect seamlessly to Jerusalem’s expanding Red and Blue light rail lines, as well as the future cable car system to the Old City. Once completed, the upgraded rail line will offer 13 trains per hour in each direction—more than doubling the current service—and accommodate up to 20,000 passengers per hour.

The total estimated cost of the project is NIS 440 million, with NIS 50 million already allocated in the 2025 budget to fast-track construction.

Moshe Ben-Zaken, Director General of the Transportation Ministry, said:
“This is a major advancement for both transportation and the economy... an efficient solution that will increase ridership and connect key metropolitan areas.”

Israel Railways Chairman Moshe Shimoni added:
“The Khan Station is a crucial milestone in expanding Jerusalem’s rail infrastructure and aligns with our vision to improve mobility and access.”

Israel Railways CEO Moshe Jana concluded:
“This station is central to our strategic plan to modernize rail access to Jerusalem with high-speed service and top-tier passenger experience.”

Construction is expected to begin in the coming weeks, pending final permit approvals, and will proceed alongside the ongoing development at Jerusalem's First Station. The entire project aims to minimize surface disruption and maintain pedestrian access, ensuring both functionality and convenience for residents and tourists.