New Fast Lanes Hub Opens in Rishon LeZion as Part of 8 Billion Shekel Project

The second phase of the fast lanes project was launched today, Sunday, with the opening of the new transportation hub in western Rishon LeZion and the operation of the fast lane on the northbound Ayalon Highway. The complex, designed to serve residents of the Shfela and southern regions, includes approximately 3,500 parking spaces, 350 electric vehicle charging stations, and 500 bicycle parking spaces.

Electric Shuttles and Transport Network

Four free electric shuttle lines will operate from the hub to employment and commercial centers in Tel Aviv. Despite the project's staggering investment of approximately 8 billion shekels, private drivers cannot yet use the lanes themselves. The option for private cars to drive on these lanes will open only during 2027, and even then, it will be free exclusively for vehicles carrying three or more passengers, while other drivers will be required to pay a dynamic toll.

The completion of the Rishon LeZion facility follows delays from the project's first phase, partly due to operational setbacks and the consequences of the war. Now, the Ministry of Transportation and Ayalon Highways aim to establish the southern hub as a viable alternative for entering the Tel Aviv metropolitan area by private car. The complex joins the Shefayim hub, which opened in April and already serves about 10,000 passengers daily.

Shuttle Routes and Future Trolls

At this stage, the lane is primarily intended for shuttles and public transportation. Four lines will operate from the Rishon LeZion hub:

• Line 861 to HaKirya, Sarona, and the Azrieli Center

• Line 862 to the Diamond Exchange district and Sidor

• Line 863 to Begin-HaMasger

• Line 864 to Yigal Alon

Shuttles will depart every five minutes during peak hours and every 15 minutes during other operating hours, running Sunday through Thursday from 06:00 to 22:45. The network currently spans about 33 kilometers of fast lanes in each direction along the Coastal Road and Highway 20.

"The project was established under the PPP method with a total cost of approximately 8 billion shekels, including construction and 15 years of operation."

However, public use of the lanes remains distant. During 2027, a technological passenger-counting system is scheduled to become active, enabling the opening of lanes to high-occupancy vehicles. A driver traveling alone or with one passenger will be required to pay a toll varying by congestion, potentially reaching 106 shekels per segment, whereas a car with three or more passengers can use the lanes free of charge.