There was widespread concern over the layout of new road junctions, lights, and road markings at this week’s Athlone area meeting after members of the public made representations to their local councillors.
There was a specific worry over the lines and road marking on the flyover at Garrycastle.
“People coming from Ericssons looking to turn left onto the bypass for Dublin are taking the turn for Baylin instead. They are then making dangerous u-turns. Lines are causing difficulty on the bridge,” said Cllr Gabrielle McFadden.
Cllr Frankie Keena added that while the traffic lights and footbridge were welcomed in the area there is some tweaking that needs to be done. “The signal timing at the pedestrian crossings isn’t giving cars enough time. There is also a major problem with the lanes. Cars are driving dangerously when they realise they’re not in the right lane for where they want to go. I’m getting calls every day on this,” he said.
Mayor of Athlone, Jim Henson, reminded his colleagues that an NRA safety audit on the new lights and junctions in the town is currently underway. “The audit should highlight how we can improve the junctions,” he said.
Cllr Kevin “Boxer” Moran acknowledged the concerns that people had, adding that the traffic lights on the Ballymahon Road were also causing issues, with many people ignoring the lights. He added that “there are new road layouts and traffic lights appearing all over the country, every time I go to Dublin the roads have changed. People will get used to them. We’re expecting the NRA reports this week and that will make a difference.”
Town engineer, Alan Kelly, said that he would be meeting with engineers this week to look over the NRA safety report. “There are some recommendations for yellow boxes and resequencing of lights. All of the recommendations will be put in place as soon as possible.
“There are delays on traffic lights, but that’s because these new junctions give more priority to pedestrians. cyclists, and side roads. People might have to give themselves more time for their journey,” he added
