The Be’er HaTikva agricultural farm, is about to undergo a dramatic change: A new municipal zoning plan seeks to replace this much- loved educational farm with urban construction, including a three-story complex for schools and welfare services.

Residents of Beit Shemesh are planning to fight to save the educational farm, an 18-dunam green oasis established over 20 years ago by local teacher Gil Karsenty. The farm, located near the RBS Gimmel junction with Nahal Tzeelim, is a vital ecological and educational hub featuring agricultural fields, greenhouses, orchards, and a sustainability visitor center. It currently serves over 1,200 students weekly from all educational streams, providing hands-on learning about nature, agriculture, and environmental quality. Beyond traditional schooling, the farm acts as a critical therapeutic farm for vulnerable populations, including children with autism, physical disabilities, and those recovering through local social welfare programs.

While the municipality argues the construction is necessary to meet the city's growing educational needs, residents and educators warn that the project will destroy the farm's unique character. The proposed development would require cutting down numerous trees and replacing open fields with concrete, effectively ending the farm’s ability to host the experiential activities and respite therapy that thousands of residents rely on.

Opponents of the plan argue that this move is part of a worrying trend by the Beit Shemesh Planning Department to prioritize high-density construction over the city's remaining green areas. They point to similar projects, that are currently being contested, as evidence that the municipality is failing to balance urban growth with the well-being of its citizens. Beyond the environmental loss, residents fear the new complex will cause severe traffic congestion at an already busy junction. They urge the city to relocate the planned buildings to alternative sites, preserving Beer Hatikvah as a sanctuary for nature and education for future generations.

Today Sunday May 3rd, is the last day to sign protests against this. Details to follow, a lawyer has been contacted and will let us know his availability. Signing will be at Nai'mi mall.