€4.5 million for Clare Active Travel infrastructure
- 28 projects county-wide to benefit
- Funding targets walking and cycling infrastructure
Fianna Fáil TD for Clare Cathal Crowe has welcomed the allocation of €4.5 million in funding for Clare County Council, for the progression of Active Travel infrastructure around the county.
The funding has been announced today by the National Transport Authority and Minister Eamon Ryan, as part of a total national fund of €290m.
The grants will see new and improved walking and cycling infrastructure across the county progress.
“I’m delighted to see such a generous portion of funding allocated to Co. Clare,” said Deputy Crowe.
“I think one very important point to make today is that while walking and cycling infrastructure is very beneficial for the tourist trade – particularly in a county like Clare – it’s also essential that we maintain a good level of service to those living locally to allow them to walk and cycle where possible.
“I cycle from Heuston Station to Leinster House every day when I’m in Dublin so I see first-hand how vital it is to invest properly in this infrastructure.
“We, as a country and as a government, are working hard to reduce our emissions in transport by 50% by 2030 and I think investment in cycling is a key part of this.
“It’s very encouraging, also, to see such a wide spread of grants around the county.
“Ennis is benefitting enormously from this funding, with over €2.2m ringfenced for the county town.
“The main thoroughfares into the town will be targeted here; with Active Travel Schemes for the Lahinch, Gort and Limerick Roads all earmarked for funding, as well as a massive €1.8m for the Tulla Road Rapid Implementation Active Travel Scheme.
“Communities in Shannon, Sixmilebridge, Tulla, Ardnacrusha, Miltown Malbay, Spanish Point, Killaloe, and so many other areas will all receive grants too.
“As a former teacher in a rural school, I’m also pleased to see that six primary schools in the county will receive funding for Safe Routes to School projects – a programme designed to encourage as many pupils and students as possible to walk and cycle.”
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