Some €13,217,166 has been allocated for the maintenance and renewal of the road network in Westmeath.
Welcoming the news, Fine Gael Minister of State, Deputy Peter Burke noted that the funding amount allocated would significantly safeguard the roads infrastructure within the county.
“This funding will cover routine maintenance to safeguard our infrastructure, ensure that our roads are resilient against the deteriorating effects of harsh weather and also contains provisions for walking and cycling infrastructure and safety schemes.
“This includes a major €800,000 allocation for the Athlone Railway Link Road as well as €50,000 for the realignment at Walderstown. Bridge works will be carried out at Ballinalassy, Fardrum as well as Cauran, Walderstown and at the Blackmore Bridge, Ballymore.
Local residents of South Westmeath will also be glad to see safety works both at Tang and at Horseleap.
“Maintaining our regional and local road network in Westmeath is not only important for connectivity, but crucial to ensuring safety on our roads, reducing road collisions and protecting lives.
“Funding for the roll out of a signage programme relating to lower speed limits in housing areas as well as ‘safe passing’ signs for cyclists will also be provided for as part of today’s allocations.
“Routine maintenance works are fundamental to safeguarding our road infrastructure and keeping the network in a good condition
“All strategic road improvement investment schemes will include provisions for walking and cycling infrastructure to take account of the needs of all road users, including cyclists and pedestrians.
“I commend my colleagues Minister Eamon Ryan and Minister of State Hildegarde Naughton for this critically important investment. I know it will make a huge difference to our road network in Westmeath,” Deputy Burke commented.
His words were echoed by fellow Minister of State, Deputy Robert Troy who stated that departmental funding was crucial in allowing local authorities to protect and enhance the local roads network.
“I am therefore very pleased that Westmeath will benefit greatly from this scheme through a variety of headings including safety works, road rehabilitation, active travel and climate action.
“There are also a number of specific projects which have been funded including the development of the Railway Field Road in Athlone.
“Maintaining our regional and local road network is not only important for connectivity, but crucial to ensuring safety on our roads, reducing road collisions and protecting lives.
Funding is being allocated to road safety schemes that target remedial measures to improve road safety for vulnerable road users and vehicular traffic. I look forward to seeing all of the relevant projects progressed in a timely manner by Westmeath County Council throughout the coming year” Minister Troy concluded.
