Public Transportation in Israel

Israel is densely populated; hence, efficient public transportation is essential for reducing road congestion and improving accessibility. Compared to other developed countries, the diversity of its means of transportation is limited. Public transportation consists mainly of buses (88% of all public transportation trips) and heavy rail (7% of all trips). In the late twentieth century, most government funds for developing transportation were devoted to improving road infrastructure, and mass transit was relatively neglected. Consequently, road congestion increased and accessibility, especially for those dependent on public transportation, steadily decreased. Moreover, the authority for planning, budgeting, and operating the public transportation system was concentrated at the national level, with inadequate participation of local authorities and end users. This hindered the adaptation of services to the needs of the traveling public. In recent decades, the trend has shifted. The state now allocates more funds for improving public transportation, including diversification and increased scope and quality of services. In the upcoming decades, additional means of public transportation, including a light rail and subway in the Tel Aviv metropolitan area, will operate. The network of light rail lines in the Jerusalem metropolitan area and the heavy rail lines in the center will be upgraded and expanded, and the railroad will be extended to other areas throughout the country. Implementing these plans is expected to improve the level of public transportation in Israel for the benefit of the public.