1993, it successfully integrates 11 renovated historical buildings with two brand-new structures. Similarly, the soon-to-be-completed Mamilla project combines its pedestrian mall and new commercial area with several historic buildings. The Russian Compound project, too, next to city hall, will continue in this tradition, where several 19th century historic treasures will be integrated with a number of new hotels and office buildings.
The city is also trying to give greater definition to its role as the nation's capital. To this end, a new national precinct is being built which will concentrate all government buildings in one area. A facelift to the main entrance of the city and an upgraded road transportation system, will also help bring Jerusalem into line with 21st century expectations of a modem, capital city.
The main conflicts over preservation concern the historic downtown area. Built in the late 19th century as Jerusalem expanded outward fmm the walled Old City, it is now an area of small businesses, restaurants and cafes.
"Today, the emphasis on the downtown area is on upgrading, more than preservation, with an eye towards turning it into an important tourist centre," says Nira Sidi, director of the planning policy department of the Jerusalem municipality. "But there are clearly pressures to develop more."
So how does the city balance these pressures?
Model of the Mamilla project, Israel's largest-ever real estate development. The soon-to-be completed project combines pedestrian malls, commercial areas, historic buildings and housing.
Traffic is one area of contention. Environmentalists have long been pushing for a near-total ban on private vehicles in the narrow downtown streets and intensive upgrading of public transportation, including a light rail system. But despite this and an outcry from the Society for the Protection of Nature in Israel, plans are going ahead for widening the historic Neviim Street (Street of the Prophets) U) serve as a main traffic artery through the town centre.
Environmentalists are also enraged that the city is in the process of re-examining its once sacrosanct policy with respect to multistorey buildings, especially in the downtown area.
For years, a maximum of six to eight storeys was the rule in order not to harm the esthetic composition of Jerusalem's old neighborhoods or to dwarf the walls of the Old City. Today, the municipality is considering 12 to 15 storey towers as a way to meet its growing needs.
"Building multistorey towers is very dangerous if you don't check out the overall expression of these buildings on the skyline, the neighborhoods and the climate," says Mr. Guggenheim. "I believe that development can go on without multistorey buildings in the downtown area. They
should be limited to the periphery where they won't clash with the city's historic character."
In Mr. Guggenlieim's opinion, the answer lies in the creation of an international body to explore the various long-term possibilities for the city, a gi'oup which can act as a counterweight to some of the pressures l(x;al politicians are subject to from developers and entrepreneurs. In the 1970s, former mayor Teddy Roller created the Jerusalem Committee to advise city hall on building and development. Mr. Guggenheim envisions something along similar lines.
"Our aim is to create an international group for an in-depth exploration of the problems of historic cities, not just Jerusalem."
Ms. Sidi has similar feelings in respect to the green areas: "A national plan would give the city the backing it needs in preserving these areas." Ms. Sidi also feels that Jerusalem may eventually have to limit its growth. "There is definitely enough land for development until 2010. But beyond that, maybe we have to find an optimal size and then leave further development to the towns and cities on Jerusalem's periphery. You can't create New York here."
Despite the problems. Mayor Olmert is confident that the essence of the city will remain, regardless of massive development. "The magic and uniqueness that is Jerusalem will still be with us," he says. "But we have to adjust to fit 21st century life." □
Your
H^ederatioAT
May 17, 19% • 28 1yar5756 \
otes
Jewish Federation of Greater Vancouver #200-950 West 41st Avenue, Vancouver, V5Z 2N7 Tel: (604)257-5100 • Fax:(604) 257-5110 iittp://web/ucs.ubc.ca/jrgv
Mcchina Bet
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np'he May meeting of Mechina -L Bet will be held in conjunction with CJCs Leadership Development Committee's program on the upcoming Israeli elections.
The ineeting will be held on Tuesday, May 21st, 7:30 p.m. at the Sidney & Gertrude Zack Gallery at the Jewish Community Centre and will feature guest panelists from Israel.
Titled A Guide to the 1996 Israeli Elections — Who Are The Players ami What is at Stake?, this evening will picsent a clearer understanding of the crucial issues facing Israel as it goes to the polls on May 29th.
All Mechina Bet participants are encouraged to attend. For more information call Judy Weinstein at the Federation office.
**See this edition of the Bulletin/or wrj/e infoniKition**
Dr. Baruch Gur, who was responsible far Operation lixodus aclivilies in Ifie Former Soviet Union and liaslern Ihirope from I9H9-I995. recently visited Vancouver He spoke to a number of local f^roups including Jewish students, community volunteers and professionals. Dr Cur's visit was arranged by the Combined Jewish Appeal.
Caught up in the 'Net?
Federation is currently updating its community data bank to include e-mail addresses. If you would like to add your address to our system, please call Naomi Price at the Federation office, or e-mail us at jfgv(gunixg.ubc.ca
These Booths Are Made For (Israel) Walking
On Sunday, May 26th, our community will show its solidarity with Israel at the 10th Annual Walk With Israel. Volunteers are needed to help in different booths at the Walk — call Orit Katzov at the Federation or Tracy Ames, CZF, at 257-5140 to volunteer. Show your support of Walk With Israel either as a volunteer or as a participant.
Community Walk With Israel Sunday, May 26, 9:15 a.m. Jewish Community Centre
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