"Jerusalem is one of the world's most complicated cities in terms of urban planning" claims a leading institute for policy and development research, adding, "urbanism in Jerusalem has two aspects: the Jerusalem ‘below’ is a city in which its varied residents lead their daily lives, and the Jerusalem ‘above’ is a global religious, spiritual, cultural, and historical icon".

​

Throughout history, rulers and states have initiated planning projects not only to meet residential needs such as access to housing, transportation, and public buildings, but also to advance political agendas and convey messages.  This is especially true in Jerusalem, given its political and symbolic status.

​

Yet, urban forums concerned with all aspects of urbanization agree today that, despite outright failures, Jerusalem is on the right track. The entrance to the city looks like a massive jumble of construction but this should lead eventually to a significant boost to the public transportation network throughout the city. The city has climate plans to address its climate footprint, it involves making sure to protect the city’s nature, planting trees and more. The aim is clearly to make the city green enough and healthy enough to make people want to live in it.

​

After all, Jerusalem is trying hard to develop as a "normal" city…

​

Here is a series which conveys my perception of the way urban planning is transforming and affecting Jerusalem.