Israeli Ministry Announces Plan for New Urban District Near Gaza

In a significant move, Israel’s Ministry of Construction and Housing has unveiled a comprehensive plan to establish a new urban district near the train station in the city of Sderot, located just north of Gaza. This initiative comes in the wake of the city being targeted during the October 7 attack, marking a key development in the region’s urban infrastructure.

The ambitious plan includes the construction of 5,000 new housing units, catering to various demographics including apartments for students. Additionally, the plan allocates approximately 370,000 square meters for commercial and employment purposes, and 350,000 square meters for public buildings. Moreover, around 40 acres of open spaces are integrated into the design to enhance the overall livability and sustainability of the urban district.

One of the focal points of the plan is the train station complex, which is envisioned as a central hub facilitating residential, employment, and commercial activities. The project aims to create a vibrant urban environment with high-quality public spaces that promote community engagement and pedestrian-friendly areas. The plan also envisions a new urban fabric that connects Sapir College to the south, the train station to the north, and features an interchange addition at the main entrance of the city.

Yehuda Morgenstern, CEO of the Ministry of Construction and Housing, expressed optimism about the expansion of Sderot and the construction of 5,000 housing units, highlighting the positive growth trajectory of the city. He emphasized the significance of this project not only for Sderot but also for the broader southern region and the State of Israel as a whole.

This urban development plan aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of Sderot, strengthen the economic landscape of the region, and create a sustainable urban environment for future generations.