Israel Hayom, Ofer Petersburg, 31.12.2020

Urban renewal in Eilat: The Jerusalem-Ayelot complex has been declared by the Government Authority for Urban Renewal as a preferred complex for urban renewal in the track of authorities.

A demolition and reconstruction project of residential buildings, construction of new commercial centers and public institutions will be carried out in the complex, for the benefit of the residents of the neighborhood and the city. 352 new housing units will be built instead of the existing 75 housing units in 4 sub-complexes, which also include 6,903 square meters for employment and trade and 3,000 square meters for public institutions.

The plan, conducted by Derman and Rebekah Architects in the management and economic consulting of Paz Economics and Engineering, was approved by the district committee.

The purpose of the municipality's strategic plan, led by Mayor Meir Yitzhak Halevi, is to bring about a dramatic revival of the field of urban renewal in the old neighborhoods, through a variety of tools with economic viability. At the same time, preferred complexes were mapped to promote detailed planning in the route of authorities, in order to bring about significant change in the urban space.

About a year and a half ago, the date complex (sing sing) was announced as being designated for evacuation-construction, also on the authorities' route. A number of new buildings will be built, some in a textured construction of 4-9 floors and some in high-rise construction of 19-14 floors. About 126 apartments (a total of 350 apartments), about 3,000 square meters of commercial space and 450 parking spaces in an underground basement will be added to the complex. The plan is currently being discussed by the local committee and will then be submitted to the district committee.

The municipal engineering department, headed by city engineer Eng. Assaf Arikha, has begun promoting detailed plans for urban renewal, one for the Ofir neighborhood and the other for the southern part of the old industrial area.

"This is a groundbreaking program, which is a green route for urban renewal processes, while maintaining economic viability for entrepreneurs," stressed Meir Yitzhak Halevi. "Along with the difficult challenges posed to us by the corona crisis, we are experiencing a boom in infrastructure and real estate."

Assaf Aricha added: "At the municipal macro level, the project is expected to strengthen the area and attract residents looking for quality housing close to the city center."

Photography:

Imaging: Derman and Rebekah Architects

Produced by the Department of Special Supplements

Ofer Petersburg