US $1.1 billion),[3][4] the project was criticized for budget overruns, for its route serving illegal settlements in east Jerusalem and for contributing to air and noise pollution during construction.

[5] Initial extensions to the Red Line were planned to the neighborhoods of Neve Yaakov in Northeast Jerusalem and Ein Karem (near Hadassah Hospital) in the Southwest.

The extension to Hadassah Hospital from Mount Herzl was particularly challenging and involved a complex path with complicated bridging works.

The Red Line extension of the Jerusalem Light Rail, intended to reach Hadassah Hospital and Neve Yaakov, has faced several delays.

Initially set for completion in July 2023, the project’s timeline has been extended, with the new expected start of operations being no earlier than November 2024.