“They see their future in Israel”
Udi Levi, VP of Sales at the Cnaan Group, which is building the Alma Project, attended the sister city ceremony in New York State and witnessed firsthand the emotional connection of the community: "It was clear that the community sees its future in Israel. Everyone was deeply moved by the moment and by the warm embrace we received."
The communities of Great Neck and Kings Point have already written the first chapter. They proved that purchasing property in the Alma Project is not just about owning a home in Israel - it's about belonging to something greater. For American Jewish families considering their next chapter, Alma offers something unique: a community of like-minded families, world-class services, safety, and a shared journey to Israel.
A Project that Builds Community
Alma represents more than urban renewal - it is a testament to Israeli innovation. Where 232 old apartments once stood in 24 low-rise “railway” buildings, 765 modern units are now being built across 10 towers of up to 20 stories.
The project’s strategic location - just 15 minutes from Ben Gurion Airport - makes it ideal for international residents wishing to maintain ties with both worlds. In addition to its proximity to Tel Aviv’s economic center, excellent educational institutions, and high quality of life in Kiryat Ono, the choice becomes clear.
Eyal Handler, Chairman of the Cnaan Group, emphasizes the deeper meaning of the project:
“This is not just a real estate venture, but a bridge between communities that reflects the resilience of Israeli society and global Jewish unity.”
The project includes mixed-use development, with approximately 6,000 square meters of commercial and office space, as well as community areas and green spaces designed to foster relationships between longtime Israeli residents and new neighbors who found Kiryat Ono to be the best and most suitable place for them.
Even as Israel faces unprecedented challenges, Alma continues to move forward. Construction of Phase C has just recently begun, with a moving ceremony attended by members of the community, as bulldozers started demolishing the old buildings. Within about a year, the first residents are expected to receive the keys to their new homes and move in.
A Life-Changing Decision
“In light of growing antisemitism, we searched for a project we could all buy into together, because we felt we needed an insurance policy in Israel,” explained Gideon Farshid, one of the buyers who came from New York to witness this latest milestone. His words reflect a growing sentiment among American Jewish communities seeking security and a deeper connection to their homeland.
The decision wasn’t just practical - it was deeply emotional.
“We told everyone - stop investing here [in the US], go invest in Israel. I have 15 grandchildren, and I want them all to serve in the army,” Farshid continued. “As a Jew, being outside of Israel is not the same. There is a higher power that tells you – Israel is home.”
This article was written in cooperation with Cnaan Group