Who'll pay the upkeep?

Friday, to begin Tu B'shvat celebrations (http://jerusalemblog.blogspot.co.il/2006/02/unexpected-february-entertainment.html ), the city hosted a sort of street fair at the "First Station," Jerusalem's Ottoman-built railway station (http://jerusalemblog.blogspot.co.il/2015/01/walking-tracks.html ). Vendors sold organic fruit and vegetables, jewelry, Ethiopian food, and strange balloon creatures. A brass band competed with quieter musicians while an improv trio performed in a side room. Young kids played games at low tables and restaurants did well.

Outside walkers crowded the promenade along the old railway right of way, while bicycles, pedal cars, and segways thronged the parallel bike path.

I found the tree tour. The guide cared about trees and their politics. I learned that chopping down a tree requires a permit. Even topping a tree without a permit is now a criminal offense. Not that this prevents trees from being destroyed, with or without permits.

I asked how the park, which runs for miles, was paid for. "By contributions." And the maintenance? "The Municipality is now responsible but has not yet appropriated money."

Some time ago the City of Jerusalem decided not to accept land donated for parks unless money for upkeep was included in the donation. This park's origins are more complicated, but I hope they come up with the needed sum soon.


Copyright 2015 Jane S. Fox