Netanya mayor on the Red Line: not yet convinced the benefit to the city outweighs the cost to residents

Netanya mayor Avi Salama has spoken about the disputed Red Line public-transport project planned to run through Ramat Poleg. On Friday, 13 November 2026, 90FM published a report based on his interview on the radio programme «HaParlament».

«Not yet convinced»

According to Salama, he is not yet convinced that this project is the most urgent or correct step for the city. He noted that additional bus lines would have to be connected to it for the line to be worthwhile. The mayor also said he has not been persuaded that the benefits outweigh the cost to residents of Ir Yamim and Poleg, who oppose the project.

Concrete barriers removed on his order

Salama said concrete barriers that appeared on site without his approval were removed on his instruction. In his words, the city is under municipal responsibility, and he will use every legal means, including the courts, to stop any action that could harm residents.

What comes next

After a meeting with Netivei Ayalon, a second meeting will be held with building committees. A decision, he said, will be made only after all claims have been heard. As reported a day earlier by NetanyaNet, Ramat Poleg residents left the second meeting, held on Zoom, without the answers they wanted.

In memory of Miriam Feirberg-Ikar

In the same conversation Salama remembered his predecessor Miriam Feirberg-Ikar on the first anniversary of her death. He said he takes from her the values of unity, love of the land and love of soldiers, and acknowledged that although they were political rivals she left a lasting legacy in the city. He also said his father attended her memorial because she had once come, seriously ill, to the funeral of his mother.

Source: 90FM, 13.11.2026

Photo: Netanya Municipality spokesperson’s office, published by 90FM