page_title: Train Track Park
section_title: Description
hierarchical_section_title: Train Track Park / Description
caption_attribution_description: English: Close-up of concrete-paneled walking path with imitation wood finish, built atop original tracks of the Jaffa-Jerusalem Railway. Train Track Park (Park HaMesila), Jerusalem, Israel.
context_page_description: Train Track Park is a rail trail urban park in Jerusalem, Israel. Featuring 7 kilometres of walking and biking trails, the park follows the route of the original Jaffa–Jerusalem railway from the Jerusalem Railway Station near the German Colony to Teddy Stadium in Malha. The park is built over – and incorporates in its design – the original railway tracks installed in 1892 and used through 1998. The park has been noted as a symbol of coexistence in the divided city, as it passes through Jewish and Arab neighborhoods and is used by residents of both.
context_section_description: The park encompasses approximately 80 dunams (0.080 km²; 0.031 sq mi). It measures 7 kilometres (4.3 mi) in length. Its width ranges from 7–15 metres (23–49 ft) depending on the location and "urban situation". The park is wheelchair accessible.
  The pedestrian path is a raised boardwalk made from molded concrete planks with an imitation wood finish, laid directly over the original railroad tracks and ties. Wood was not used for either the walkway or benches in the project due to the Jerusalem municipality's concern for maintenance and prevention of vandalism, and to avoid damage from the occasional snowfall. To the side of the tracks is a paved bicycle path, which will eventually be linked to the Jerusalem Metropolitan Park that will yield 42 kilometres (26 mi) of continuous cycling trails. In between the walking and biking paths in the wider sections is a strip of grass; in narrower sections, ornamental plants border the park. The park was planted with plane trees.
  At intersections with side streets or major urban junctions, the architects created small squares with benches, playground equipment, and drinking fountains. The transition between neighborhoods along the route is demarcated by benches and additional lighting. Original railroad accouterments, such as signal boxes, signage, and communication poles, were preserved in some places, and historical markers and photos were posted along the route.
caption: Detail of imitation wood finish on the concrete walking path
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