For years, Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) has been working to ensure that more and more parks, recreational spaces and forests are accessible to all citizens and tourists, including people with disabilities.
KKL-JNF's efforts are part of Israel's efforts to comply with the Equal Rights for Persons with Disabilities Act.
For example, it renovated the 500-meter trail for blind people in Ben Shemen Forest, which in addition to having asphalt pavement with sloping edges, also offers tactile guides, Braille signs and audio guides.
In addition, he developed the circular Nahal HaShofet bell tower, which guarantees access to a 1.6-kilometer walk with waterfalls, streams and vegetation.
Other renovated trails and circuits include the Khirbet Tinshemet archaeological site in Shoham Forest Park, the Ilanot Forest Botanical Garden, the Black Arrow Memorial, and the Beit Eshel historical site located in Beersheba River Park.
Merav Davidian, KKL-JNF Accessibility Coordinator, explained: “Our goal is to enable people with disabilities to experience nature fully. We design spaces that combine inclusion and authentic connection to the natural environment.”