With an unprecedented investment of billions of NIS: A historic roof agreement for Safed, the capital of the Galilee, which is set to significantly upgrade the old city and double its size, was signed today (Tuesday) in a festive ceremony.
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According to the signed agreement, 7,294 new housing units will be built as part of a large-scale development plan, alongside approximately 63,000 square meters of commercial and employment space that will provide jobs for thousands of residents.
The signing ceremony was held at the city's 'Southern Gate' complex - where thousands of new housing units are expected to be built - in the presence of Minister of Construction and Housing Yitzhak Goldknopf, Mayor Yossi Kakkon, Director General of the Ministry of Construction and Housing Yehuda Morgenstern, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Moshe Aboutbul, mayors, city rabbis, members of the city council and public figures from all over the country, who came to take part in the historic event, which is set to completely change the face of the city of Safed.
Alongside the significant expansion of the city, as part of the umbrella agreement, extensive investment in infrastructure is also expected. A total budget of NIS 510 million will be allocated for the development of advanced infrastructure, including roads, drainage, electricity and water networks. In addition, a new "Southern Gate" interchange will be built at the entrance to the city at a cost of NIS 300 million.
An additional NIS 300 million will be allocated to strengthen public institutions, complete educational, cultural and welfare institutions, to meet the growing needs of the population. In an important step for long-time residents, NIS 110 million will be invested in existing neighborhoods to improve living conditions in the old city, so that development will not focus only on the new neighborhoods.
Yitzhak Goldknopf, Minister of Construction and Housing: “The signing of the Safed Roof Agreement is a historic moment for the city of Safed and for the entire north. The addition of 7,300 new housing units in Safed will bring a real revolution. By signing the agreement today, we declare loudly: Safed is back on the map!
"With an investment of over 3.4 billion shekels, we are building a future for Safed and restoring its status as a central city in the Galilee, with some of the most advanced infrastructure in the country, quality jobs, and a quality of life that will attract thousands of young families. This is a clear expression of the policy of the government and the ministry that I lead. The periphery is the future of the State of Israel, and the north is the beating heart of this future."
Yossi Kakon, Mayor of Safed: "This is a holiday for the city of Safed. This is a historic agreement, which comes after difficult years that the city has experienced, and will change the face of the city for decades to come. The overall investment will ensure high-quality and balanced development that will serve both the new residents and the veteran community. The agreement is expected to begin implementation early next year, with an initial focus on developing infrastructure and preparing the land for construction. I thank my friend the Minister of Construction and Housing, a long-time friend of our city, for his help and assistance throughout the process, until we were able to celebrate the completion of the project."
Yehuda Morgenstern, Director General of the Ministry of Construction and Housing: "The agreement in Safed is a significant milestone in strengthening the north and doubling the number of its residents. This is a large-scale move that expresses our commitment to the periphery - not only in construction, but in the overall development of infrastructure, transportation, education and community. The investment testifies to the government's trust in Safed and the close partnership with the municipality, for a better future for all residents of the region."
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