Billionaire’s £1million donation will help make cycle trail safe after Elad attack

A billionaire philanthropist has donated $1million to make a bike trail safer, days after an attack on cyclists killed three and left four injured.

Sylvan Adams gave the cash days after the horrific terror attack in the central Israeli town of Elad.

He did so after being taken on a tour of the trail by Israel’s President Isaac Herzog, and the Mayor of Elad, Rabbi Israel Porush.

The members of the delegation visited the site of the recent attack in Elad Park where the Mayor briefed Mr Adams on the security situation.

Mayor Porush explained how the attack had been carried out, on the evening of Israel’s Independence Day.

The delegation then toured the bicycle and walking trails that surround the town, and reviewed the first phase – which has already been completed – and looked at the planned second phase, which would encircle the town.

The second phase will include a wide walking trail, alongside a safe biking trail, with lighting, security cameras, and a tall perimeter fence.

Mr. Adams rode a bike along the planned route in commemoration of the victims and said: “The terrorists came here to cause death and chaos, destroying lives, and orphaning children, senselessly murdering innocent people.

“We are not like them. We will overcome.

“We will invest even more in our communities, and in Elad, build a well-lit and secure cycling and walking trail, with security cameras and a perimeter fence, that will prevent people living just a few kilometres away from undermining the safety of the community and our children.

“We want to live here in peace and quiet alongside our neighbours. This is our answer, to build our country and live in peace.”

Mr Adams’ donation is to  ensure the 10km trail can be completed – it is now half way through.

The joint project between the Municipality of Elad and the Ministry of Transportation aims to enable residents to enjoy the local landscape, safely and free of cars, with special exits for schools and colleges.

Mayor Porush thanked Mr Adams for his support and the solidarity he had shown with the residents of the town, adding: “We want to build something safe for our children and residents, so they can walk and bike safely. I am grateful that our dear friend Sylvan, a true Zionist, has stepped in to help us complete this mission.”

The Mayor also thanked President Herzog and First Lady Michal Herzog, for their support for residents and the director of the Elad Foundation for promoting the town’s development.