Tel Aviv Allocates 28.9M Shekels for Weekend Transit Amid Public Debate
The Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality has allocated 28.98 million shekels for the "Naim Besofash" weekend transit project in its 2026 budget, sparking renewed public debate over the status quo and public funding.
The Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality has allocated 28.98 million shekels for the continuation of the weekend public transportation project known as "Naim Besofash" in the 2026 municipal budget.
Budget details indicate that part of the funding is covered by participating local authorities, with expected revenues of approximately 6.995 million shekels, leaving a municipal net expenditure of about 21.985 million shekels.
The initiative remains a subject of ongoing public debate in Israel regarding its impact on the traditional character of Shabbat and the allocation of public funds for services operating on days of rest.
Proponents argue the service provides essential mobility for residents without private vehicles, while critics contend it disrupts the longstanding status quo and diverts public resources to contested services.
Shai Glick, CEO of the BeTzalmo organization, criticized the funding:
"This project severely harms the observant public and violates the status quo. If there was genuine market demand, private forces would supply it. I call on municipalities to stop funding such initiatives."
The Tel Aviv-Yafo Municipality defended the project in a statement:
"Secular and religious residents live together in mutual respect in Tel Aviv-Yafo. Our investment in Jewish heritage and culture significantly exceeds these allocations, and we remain committed to shared living and tolerance."
The Hotam organization also issued a statement opposing the initiative:
"The municipality is using public funds to undermine the sanctity of Shabbat. We urge Mayor Ron Huldai to invest public funds in strengthening Jewish identity rather than divisive projects."
