Improvement works to the N55 between The Pigeons and Ballymahon are due to commence in 2018.
The council’s director of services Barry Kehoe told councillors at last week’s meeting of Westmeath County Council that the design process for the scheme is due to commence with the procurement of consultants.
After this first stage, a Route Selection Report will go on public display, following which a preferred route will be identified.
Mr Kehoe stressed that there will be consultation with both councillors and the public at several stages throughout the process.
An agreement has been reached with Longford County Council to authorise Westmeath County Council to plan and carry out the works.
