As the recently opened cycleway bridge continues to gain regular use and favourable comment, elected representatives have welcomed the new addition to the Athlone landscape.
Speaking this week, local Minister of State, Deputy Burke, noted his delight at being in attendance at the formal opening of the structure which crosses the River Shannon from the Radisson Blu Hotel to the Luan Gallery in the heart of Athlone.
“I was delighted to attend the official opening of the new Athlone Greenway Bridge which makes a great connection to the walking and cycling network in Athlone and the greater Westmeath area.
“It was great to see the whole community embrace the new bridge and support this fantastic piece of infrastructure with groups from local sporting and community groups crossing the bridge for the first time.
“Ambitious targets were set by Government in terms of extending greenways and the investment of €15 million in this bridge brings connectivity from Maynooth to Athlone, a total distance of 108 kilometres of safe, off-road travel options for walkers and cyclists.
“Cycling tourism is a growing market and this extension will greatly improve the tourism potential of Athlone and the Westmeath area,” Deputy Burke stated.
His thoughts were echoed by local Fine Gale councillor, John Dolan, who described the cycleway bridge as a unique piece of major infrastructure.
“I was delighted to be present on the occasion of the opening of the new pedestrian and cycleway bridge joining east and west Athlone, a truly unique piece of major infrastructure for the town.
“It was great to see so many people enjoying the opening of the bridge and the huge addition it will make to locals and visitors alike,” Cllr Dolan enthused.
