Urban Renewal

Urban renewal is an ongoing process of development and improvement of the city’s infrastructure and housing. It occurs when contractors or developers work to build new apartments, upgrade old neighborhoods, and transform them into modern and more comfortable places to live. All this aims to improve residents’ quality of life and renew the urban fabric.

Urban renewal usually begins in areas with outdated infrastructure and buildings constructed many years ago. Contractors or developers reach agreements with apartment owners in existing buildings and offer them a plan where they can receive a new and modern apartment instead of the old one. Sometimes, part of the incentive for residents to participate in this process is additional living space or other improvements they couldn’t achieve on their own.

Beyond replacing old buildings with new ones, urban renewal also includes improvements to public infrastructure such as roads, sewage systems, public lighting, and more. All these contribute to a healthier lifestyle and help prevent urban wear phenomena such as traffic congestion and pollution.

The social and economic impacts of urban renewal are extensive. These processes raise property values in the area, improve personal security, and increase commercial activity. Thus, urban renewal can transform neglected areas into urban attraction centers and contribute to the overall economic development of the city.

Recently, we have seen many cities in Israel undergo significant changes as part of urban renewal. These initiatives not only preserve the city’s cultural and historical character but also ensure that new infrastructures are more environmentally friendly, according to the changing needs of the city’s residents and future generations.

One of the main dilemmas arising in the urban renewal process relates to the rights and approaches of existing residents. To ensure this process is fair and beneficial to all residents, it is important to focus on three main principles: transparency, justice, and inclusion.

Transparency in the Renewal Processes

Transparency is critical for any successful urban renewal process. It allows residents to understand all proposals and future plans and to be full partners in decisions affecting their lives. When plans are presented clearly and understandably, it prevents feelings of distrust and promotes a sense of belonging and identification with the process.

Social and Economic Justice

Social justice in urban renewal involves ensuring equal rights for all residents, especially those who may be adversely affected by the process. For example, it is important to provide fair and temporary housing arrangements for those displaced during renovations and to preserve residents’ rights to return to their renewed homes after completion. It is also important to ensure that the costs of living in the new apartments are not excessive for the existing residents.

Inclusion of Residents and Community

Including residents in the process can ensure urban renewal reflects the wishes and needs of all different population segments. Active community engagement and open dialogue with local government can help give residents a sense of ownership over the changes occurring in their neighborhood.

By integrating these principles into urban renewal processes, it can be ensured that not only the city’s physical space improves but also the community connection and social feeling of the city’s residents are preserved. Ultimately, urban renewal is not just a construction and renovation project but also a cultural and social transition requiring broad thinking and comprehensive planning.

In summary, urban renewal is a key factor in improving and developing cities. Through these renewed plans, contractors and developers not only renovate buildings but also contribute to a comprehensive improvement of urban life, while preserving environmental quality and supporting the local community.

As part of the general trend in the Israeli real estate market, Ken-Hator Engineering and Construction, a subsidiary specializing in urban renewal, was established. The company initiates and executes projects for strengthening, renovating, and expanding existing buildings (TAMA 38-1) and projects for demolition and reconstruction (TAMA 38-2 / evacuation and construction).

Ken-Hator Urban Renewal was selected as a leading company in TAMA 38 in the city of Tel Aviv

Many Advantages for Residents

Contracting and Executing Company

Ken-Hator initiates and executes projects itself from start to finish. Residents deal throughout the project with a single entity they know and trust.

Extensive Entrepreneurial Knowledge and Experience in Residential Projects

Throughout its existence until today, Ken-Hator has initiated, executed, and is executing hundreds of housing units. The company has extensive experience with municipalities and councils, including issuing building permits. It has a skilled and attentive team accompanying residents during construction, handling changes, and providing customer service during the warranty year and beyond.

Extensive Experience in Strengthening Buildings Against Earthquakes

The company has extensive experience in strengthening existing buildings against earthquakes, adding reinforced rooms (Mamadim), construction expansions, and complex renovations. All this without evacuating residents and while maintaining normal life in the building.

Proven Financing Capability

The company has financing abilities through equity as well as banks and financing companies. The company has a reputation for financial stability and high payment ethics and is recommended by banks for projects for purchasing groups and developers.

Personal and Family-Like Attention

Residents who contract with Ken-Hator under the TAMA 38 agreement enjoy the advantages of a large and stable company combined with personal and family-like attention to each resident. The company works concurrently on a limited number of projects and dedicates maximum attention to them.