A new bike trail in Northern Israel is expected to attract thousands of visitors and avid bikers. The "Partnership 2000 Trail", an initiative of the Jewish Agency for Israel and United Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh will be launched on Monday, May 11, 2009, at 4 p.m.

The bi-directional trail, 35 kilometres in length, will pass through the city of Karmiel as well as nature preserves and scenic paths in the Misgav area. It will open to the general public in October. Various segments of the trail cater to differing audiences - ranging from casual family riders to biking professionals looking for more adventurous routes.

Jewish Agency Partnership 2000 Director Yael Reich notes that the initiative is part of a comprehensive program to develop Karmiel-Misgav's tourism potential. Several tourism attractions will be developed along the trail, which will host events such as the Hila BaGalil March for Women's Health.

Joining Jewish Agency Partnership 2000 and the United Jewish Federation of Pittsburgh in developing the trail are the Karmiel Municipality, Misgav Regional Council, Galilee Development Authority, Jewish National Fund and Israel's National Parks Authority.

Partnership 2000 links 550 Jewish communities from throughout the world with 45 Israeli regions. Pittsburgh is partnered with Karmiel-Misgav.

On hand for the dedication will be Rani Trainin, Chairman of the Jewish Agency's Israel Committee; Karmiel Mayor Adi Eldar; Misgav Mayor Ron Shani and representatives of the Pittsburgh Jewish Community. Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony participants will ride the trail on bicycles and jeeps.