Plans to resolve Galway city’s mounting traffic problems will be presented to city councillors and Galway West TDs and Senators next week, with one TD saying funding for any of the forthcoming solutions will “not be a problem”.
Independent Galway West TD Noel Grealish is calling for cross-party support for the measures, following a one-hour meeting held on Tuesday with city council CEO Brendan McGrath. He said a standing commitment from the Government, to allocate up to €7 million once plans were formulated, means money will be available for new traffic calming projects.
“Money is not an issue here — once there is a plan, Government will provide the money. There is a commitment by this Government that €7m will be provided up front and if more money is needed it will be provided,” he said. “I will be holding them to that.”
Dep Gealish said among the proposals that will be presented to politicians next week will be dealing with the Briarhill/Parkmore areas, which has 14,000 vehicles coming in and out each day. He understands these will include road widening on the approach to Briarhill junction and a bus lane on the road leading to the Briarhill junction. “The intersection at Briarhill is very restricted and that’s the major pinch-point for traffic in the morning and in the evening,” said Dep Grealish.
Aecom, the consultants hired by the city council to come up with a plan to try to alleviate the traffic difficulties, is meeting with the council this week. Dep Grealish is also organising meetings with the landowners affected by the proposed improvement works at Parkkmore-Briarhill intersection.
Also discussed by Dep Grealish and CEO McGrath was a park and ride service at Galway Airport. The TD has asked for a comprehensive survey to be carried out to establish likely usage.
“From my contacts with Government departments, the Taoiseach, and Transport Minister Shane Ross on this issue, one thing is clear, there will be funding for any solution.
