The Old City of Jerusalem Revitalization Program (OCJRP, O.C.J.R.P., J.R.P. or JRP) was begun in 1995 with primary funding from the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development to renovate and restore major Arab historic and residential sites in the Old City of Jerusalem. The Program has been able to expand through funds raised for specific JRP projects. By encouraging the use of traditional materials and careful restoration techniques, the Program aims to influence local restoration practices as well as to improve the social and economic conditions for inhabitants. The Program is implemented by an interdisciplinary technical team of urban planners, architects and archeologists and uses the expertise of local craftsmen.
Located in the most deprived and vulnerable area of the Old City, the courtyard house or hosh housed 4-5 families living in bad physical and environmental conditions. Its restoration aimed at providing better living conditions for the residents of the hosh, as part of a larger historical urban renewal of the Arab neighborhood.
The work included repaving of concrete and cement floors with stone, replacement of aluminum and metal windows with traditional wooden windows and mashrabiyyas, provision of three new toilets and two kitchens, and the installation of new electrical wiring and lighting on the exterior and interior.
Source: Old City Jerusalem Revitalisation Programme
