History

Since 1968, Shapir Company has been a beacon of innovation in marine engineering. What started as a bold vision has grown into a story of resilience and pioneering success.

From construction materials to massive projects and national infrastructure, we’ve embraced challenges and pioneered new approaches. Yet, our journey doesn’t stop there. We’re driven to explore new, diverse, and complementary fields, shaping a future where every milestone is a testament to our pursuit of excellence. Join us on this transformative journey through the milestones of Shapir since 1968.

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לעמוד המונגש

1968
Shapir Engineering
1974
Eilat's Maritime Security Barrier
1985
Wave Breaker in Ashkelon
1989
The Givat Shmuel Interchange
1991
Immigration from the Soviet Union
1993
Gilo Bridge
1998
● Nahalat Ada Project

● the Haleum Car Park Project
1999
NATBAG 2000
2001
the Israeli Knesset
2007
the Fast Lane
2009
● Railway to Jerusalem
2013
Highway 531
2014
● Shapir IPO

● Haifa Bay Port
2015
Highway 6-Cross North
2018
Be'Tzavta Neighborhood
2019
the South Port
2020
● Jerusalem Light Rail

● Second Level of the Fast Lane
2021
IDF Logistical Centers
2022
● Ashdod Seawater Desalination Plant

● Tel Aviv Light Rail
2023
Generi 3

1968

Founding of Shapir Engineering

In 1968, Yaakov Shapira, a proud native of Kibbutz Ein Ganim and a Palmach veteran from the Second Aliyah, made a bold decision. Inspired by the post-Six-Day War construction boom in Israel, he left his position at the Earthworks Cooperative to venture into independent maritime engineering.
His journey wasn't just a career shift; it was a commitment to be part of something greater. With determination and vision, Shapira laid the groundwork for Shapir Engineering, contributing to the nation's growth. This act of courage marked not just the inception of a company but the beginning of a legacy, inspiring excellence in the Israeli engineering landscape.
1974

The Maritime Barrier at the Port of Eilat

During the Sinai War, Shapir established the "Maritime Barrier'' at the military port in Eilat, a project aimed at preventing sea-based threats. This marked Shapir's inaugural maritime venture at the Navy's base in Eilat, designed to safeguard against submarine infiltrations into the southern border of the country. The barrier, a testament to Shapir's commitment, aided naval forces in fulfilling their primary mission: ensuring the security and tranquility of Eilat, preserving its vibrancy as a tourism and leisure destination in Israel.
This project served as the opening salvo for decades of specialized engineering projects by Shapir in the maritime domain. The company has since undertaken a diverse range of complex projects within the ports of Israel.
1985

Wave Breaker in Ashkelon

Upon the request of the electricity company, the Shapir Group constructed a wave breaker for the cooling water reservoir of the power station in Ashkelon. With a million tons of stone, Shapir crafted a wave breaker spanning approximately 1,000 meters and reaching depths of about 12 meters. In this endeavor, Shapir's dedication and expertise manifested, creating not just a structure but a symbol of resilience against the forces of nature. The wave breaker stands as a testament to Shapir's ability to transform challenges into monumental achievements, safeguarding vital infrastructure for the benefit of the community.
1989

The Givat Shmuel Interchange

In a transformative initiative, Shapir pioneered the construction of the first bridge over Highway 4, uniting Givat Shmuel and Bnei Brak. Over two years, the Shapir Group worked diligently at night in order to minimize traffic disruption, utilizing 5,000 cubic meters of concrete and 250 kilograms of iron per cubic meter. This 350-meter dual-lane bridge, spanning 14 meters in width, not only facilitates movement but stands as a symbol of Shapir's commitment to innovation and community connectivity.
1991

Immigration from the Soviet Union

We are proud of our role in the extensive construction endeavors that accompanied the uplifting wave of immigration from the Soviet Union. Our contribution transcends mere structures; it symbolizes empowerment, resilience, and the promise of a brighter future for those ascending with this remarkable journey.
1993

Gilo Bridge

Forging a link between the twin tunnels of Highway 60, stretching towards the beauty of Gush Etzion, the Gilo Bridge emerges as a testament to pioneering construction. It proudly stands among the first bridges in Israel crafted with the artistry of the balanced cantilever method, a ballet of interconnected segments defying gravity. This innovative approach is perfectly suited for challenges, turning the intricate dance of building a bridge over a vast ravine into a masterpiece of engineering brilliance.
1998

Nahalat Ada Project

In the northern reaches of Herzliya, Shapir Engineering laid the foundation for a brighter tomorrow with the Nahalat Ada Project. These new homes, strategically positioned just two kilometers from the city center and a short distance from Ra'anana, cater to young couples seeking affordable housing solutions. Established in the late 1940s, Nahalat Ada has evolved into a dynamic community. Shapir's initiative, a key player in the 'Price for the Neighborhood' program led by the Israeli government through the Ministry of Housing, introduces two-story residential buildings at the neighborhood's core. This practical development not only offers affordable housing but also weaves seamlessly into the vibrant fabric of Herzliya's community, contributing to the city's thriving landscape.

Shapir's Entrance into the Concession Sector (BOT) with the Haleum Car Park Project

Shapir Group enters into the concession sector (Build, Operate, Transfer - BOT) with the Haleum Car Park Project constructed across the street from the Supreme Court in Jerusalem. The project includes several levels containing 1,800 parking spaces and 50,000 m2 of polished and well-lit flooring, allowing easy access to cars and buses. The car park boasts an eye-pleasing architecture along the pedestrian exits. Above the car park, which the company operates as a concession to be returned to municipal ownership eventually, Shapir built extensive commercial space.
1999

Ben Gurion Airport (NetBug 2000)

In a pivotal collaboration, the Shapir Group took center stage in shaping the future of travel through its substantial contribution to the Netbug 2000 project. Our teams worked tirelessly, laying the foundations of this national infrastructure, crafting the very essence of the departure lanes and pathways that embrace the terminal structure. In every slab of asphalt and pour of concrete, we laid the groundwork for a seamless journey, leaving an enduring mark on the gateway to new horizons.
2001

Shapir is Declared the Concessionaire that will Design, Finance, Build and Operate the Israeli Knesset.

Shapir was selected as the visionary to plan, fund, build, and supervise the Knesset of Israel project for the next 25 years. This marks not just a project but a commitment to shaping the very essence of our democracy. Within the Knesset's hallowed halls, Shapir’s personal touch can be felt – from the beautifully designed committee rooms to the rejuvenation of the entire structure. Since its completion, Shapir has stood as the guardian of Israel's most esteemed symbol of governance, ensuring that the Knesset continues to echo with the spirit of democracy for generations to come.
2007

The Launch of the Fast Lane, BOT Project

The Fast Lane Parking, Shapir's Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) project, is an integrated transportation solution built on a combination of public, private, shared, and flexible pricing-dependent transportation. In 2007, Shapir initiated the first phase of the project, constructing approximately 2,000 parking spaces. In 2020, the parking expansion project commenced, doubling the number of parking spaces to 3,800.
2009
Jerusalem Railway Tunnels, The Longest Tunnels in Israel

In the heart of Israel, the Shapir Group made history with the construction of the longest railway tunnels in Israel, spanning a remarkable 11 kilometers to Jerusalem. Using cutting-edge Tunnel Boring Machines (TBMs), our journey underground signifies a commitment to efficiency and innovation. As we navigated through various terrains, including beneath the seabed, these tunnels stand as a testament to our dedication in shaping the future of transportation in the region.
2013

Project Highway 531, Connecting Between Highway 6 and Highway 20

Shapir successfully carried out the Highway 531 project, seamlessly connecting Highway 6 to Highway 20. The completion of the Ra'anana South interchange in 2019 marked a significant milestone, with over a million cubic meters of earth excavated and 350,000 cubic meters of concrete artfully poured – a monumental feat equivalent to about 45,000 concrete mixer trucks. The outcome is a breathtaking dual two-lane road, spanning 2.2 kilometers and adorned with four elegant bridges, two strategically designed interchanges – Ra'anana South and Kfar Malal, four gracefully crafted underpasses, a 1.8 km viaduct, an impressive 1.8 km railway tunnel, and a dual railway track extending over 2.2 km.
2014

Public Offering on the Stock Exchange In 2014

Shapir issued stocks to the public, transitioning into a publicly traded company. Presently, the company is listed on the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange with a ranking of 35+ and a credit rating of +A.

The Haifa Bay Port Project

As part of the project, Shapir extended and constructed the primary and secondary breakwaters, respectively. Shapir also built wharves, storage areas and a cargo train terminal and engaged in maritime excavations. The scope of the project stood at approximately NIS 4 billion and was concluded approximately one year ahead of the contractual date.
2015

Road 6 – North

Road 6 north marked a significant milestone for Shapir, showcasing our commitment to delivering complex infrastructure solutions. Covering a stretch from Yokneam to the Sumak interchange, this Design-Build-Operate-Transfer (DBOT) initiative required precision and ingenuity. Despite the challenges of navigating through active highways and environmentally sensitive zones, our team's dedication shone through. Shapir not only met but exceeded expectations, completing the project ahead of schedule, a testament to our capability and resilience in the face of complexity.
2018

For the first time in Israel: A neighborhood in the 'Design and Build' Model In Harish – The Be‘Tzavta’ Neighborhood

Shapir is the first infrastructure and construction company in Israel to win a tender for the construction of an entire neighborhood, the Be‘Tzavta’ neighborhood in Harish. This is the first neighborhood in Israel built all at once (in the 'Design and Build' model): buildings, public structures, public spaces, roads, and infrastructure. The neighborhood consists of 1,519 housing units and was populated in February 2021. Following the success of the project, the Ministry of Construction and Housing adopted the model for the construction of additional neighborhoods in Beit Shemesh, Kiryat Gat, Katzrin, and more.
2019

Infrastructure of the privately held Ashdod SouthPort

As the maritime gateway north of the Ashdod port, this commercial seaport plays a vital role in meeting the economic demands of the maritime trade sector. In the ambitious endeavor to enhance the port's capabilities, Shapir, selected by the private operator, embarked on the comprehensive "furniture" works, encompassing the construction of critical infrastructure, laying of tracks, intricate electrical works, erecting cranes, the strategic positioning of railroad tracks, the establishment of substations, the creation of robust buildings, operational structures, spacious warehouses, and sophisticated control rooms. Shapir's commitment to excellence shines through in every aspect of this transformative project, contributing significantly to the maritime landscape and economic vitality.
2020
The Project for Expanding the Red Line and Constructing the Green Line of the Jerusalem Light Rail is Launched

Expansion of the Red Line and construction of the Green Line of the Jerusalem Light Rail This is a mega-project in which Shapir was awarded the opportunity to build, operate and maintain, as a concession and in which the Group was granted operating rights for the Red and Green Lines in Jerusalem, the capital city of the State of Israel. In April 2021, Shapir began, in collaboration with the Spanish CAF Company, operating the Red Line and its extension alongside the work to construct the newer Green Line. The Jerusalem Light Rail Project is the first of its kind for the Shapir Co. The experience that the Group has accumulated will enable it to carry out large-scale projects such as this in the future.
Constructing the second floor of the Fast Lane

Shapir advanced the completion of the second and third phases of the Fast Lane's second-floor construction project, adding approximately 2,000 parking spaces. The development and construction spanned over an impressive 65,000 square meters. Successfully concluded in early 2023, several months ahead of the contractual deadline, the project now boasts a parking facility with 3,800 spaces.
2021

The IDF Logistic Centers Project

Shapir was selected to pioneer a distinctive and intricate national endeavor: the creation of three logistic centers strategically positioned in the South, Center, and North of the country. This visionary project presents a myriad of challenges spanning the realms of engineering, logistics, technology, and security. Over the course of approximately 6 years, Shapir will breathe life into this ambitious venture, and subsequently, enter a dynamic 20-year operational partnership with the Orian company. Together, we are set to redefine the landscape of logistics, leaving an enduring impact on the nation's infrastructure.
2022

Construction and upgrade of Ashdod’s Seawater Desalination Facility

As part of the project, the facility will be rehabilitated, and a power station will be established by the Shapir and GES group. The existing desalination facility continues its ongoing operation. Simultaneously, Shapir has begun the facility’s construction and upgrade which is expected to last about a year and a half. The Ashdod desalination facility has a maximum production capacity of 140 million cubic meters, with an allocation for the production of 100 million cubic meters per year.

Tel Aviv Light Rail Purple Line

Following our success in operating and upgrading existing lines for Jerusalem Light Rail, Shapir secured the contract for the construction and maintenance of the Purple Line in Tel Aviv. In collaboration with the Spanish company CAF, this project is poised to enhance the quality of life for many residents across Israel. The Purple Line will connect Kiryat Ono and Yehud to the center of Tel Aviv, passing through Bar Ilan University, Sheba Medical Center, and the Carmel Market. The line is expected to span approximately 27 kilometers at ground level, with 45 stations along its route.
2023

Generi 3 Complex in Jerusalem

Shapir will bring to life the Generi 3 Complex in Jerusalem—a sprawling expanse covering 82,000 square meters, elevated above Depo 25. This initiative integrates government offices and vibrant commercial spaces atop the light rail structure. Envisioned as a catalyst for advancing mobility, this development not only signifies progress but also promises seamless and swift access, amplifying the city's connectivity and accessibility.