Michael Ring, Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, has welcomed the announcement by his colleague Minister of State Alan Kelly that approval has been given for €116,000 in funding. This money will allow for the provision of some four kilometres of cycle lanes, 376 metres of footpaths, and 12 bike parking spaces in Castlebar.
The funding comes from the sustainable travel spending as part of the Government's jobs initiative. The jobs initiative is focused on 'shovel ready' projects that can deliver substantial benefit to a community this year and provide some employment.
Smarter Travel projects are designed to encourage and facilitate a switch towards more sustainable transport methods such as pedestrianisation and cycling.
“This is an issue that the Taoiseach Enda Kenny and I have been working on. I had also been contacted by local councillors on this matter,” said Minister Ring.
Castlebar town councillor Ger Deere has also welcomed the funding as “it will play an important part in making travelling by pedestrians and bike users much safer in the Castlebar area. As a member of Smart Travel Castlebar and a keen cycler myself, I recognise the importance of this infrastructure and I hope it will play an important part in creating a healthier and safer life style for the people of Castlebar.”
The councillor also said the “important benefit will be the employment that will be created under this funding from the jobs initiative. I hope the work can commence as soon as possible and I thank Minister of State, Michael Ring TD and the Taoiseach and town manager Seamus Granahan for their support in securing funding for this project as it will make a positive impact to the local Castlebar area.”
