ABSTRACT
The 2 km Blue Line Underground Section is a key component of the 20 km Light Rail Transit (LRT) line currently under development as part of the Jerusalem Mass Transit Master Plan. This underground section of the Blue Line is in a challenging urban environment characterized by narrow streets, limited right-of-way, steep gradients, tight turns, and intersections with other LRT lines. The geological conditions include various formations of limestone and dolomite, with karst phenomena being a common feature in the Jerusalem region, which must be addressed throughout the design and construction process. This paper highlights the key design considerations, including the approach to large-span station tunnels, the geological risks associated with karst, the potential impact on existing buildings, and the integration of the underground stations in a densely built, sensitive urban area with very limited space available.
