Cars to be barred from J’lem’s Old City

Starting next month, private cars will be prohibited from entering Jerusalem’s Old City via Jaffa Gate.

By ABE SELIG
old city lit up 29888 (photo credit: Ariel Jerozolimski)
old city lit up 29888
(photo credit: Ariel Jerozolimski)
Beginning next month, private cars will be prohibited from enteringJerusalem’s Old City via Jaffa Gate between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., themunicipality announced this week. The restriction goes into effect June6,
and is aimed at curbing traffic jams, noise and pollution within theOld City walls, while improving accessibility to sites in the area forvisitors. Residents of the Old City and vehicles transporting thedisabled will be exempt from the new regulations.
“This is the most important historical site in the world,” Mayor NirBarkat said of the Old City, while discussing the new plan earlier thisweek.
“We must preserve and protect it, and help it stay beautiful, clean andaccessible to everyone,” he added. “I'm glad the Jerusalem Municipalitywas able to formulate this plan, which will improve access to thepublic, and of course Old City residents.” City officials areencouraging visitors to the area to use a new “park and ride” program,via the No. 38 Egged bus, which will transport people through the OldCity from parking lots located outside the walls.