FOLLOWING the completion of 1.4 kilometres of new infrastructure, the Mill Road Active Travel Scheme has officially launched.
The works, carried out by Limerick City and County Council’s Active Travel team, were funded by the Department of Transport through the National Transport Authority.
The introduction of the scheme follows the completion of new infrastructure designed to improve safety and connectivity for residents, particularly pupils attending Scoil Íde and students of St Munchin’s College, a statement from the Council said.
The Mill Road scheme includes a new off-road shared path, several raised pedestrian crossings, and comprehensive traffic calming measures. In a commitment by the local authority to environmental sustainability and biodiversity, the project also included the planting of over 280 new trees along the route.
Mayor of Limerick John Moran deemed the Mill Road Active Travel Scheme another life-changing investment in the health and safety of the children and residents of Limerick.
“Where there was once a gap and a missing footpath and dangerous road, there is now a dedicated, safe path for pupils from Scoil Íde and St Munchin’s to walk, scoot, or cycle to school,” the Mayor said.
“This transformation was only possible thanks to the immense collaboration and patience of the local residents, the schools, the Limerick Diocese, the Active Travel team and the National Transport Authority.”
According to Director of Services for Transportation and Mobility at Limerick Council, Patricia Liddy, this project successfully delivers a high-quality, off-road shared path and critical safety improvements, which are already encouraging a modal shift in the area.
“The Mill Road scheme is a practical result of Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy, demonstrating the commitment of this Council to building a functional, integrated and sustainable transport network. We are proud that our focus on efficient delivery has positioned Limerick City and County Council among the top three local authorities in the country for active travel infrastructure,” Ms Liddy said.
The Council has also confirmed that works on the Corbally Road scheme have commenced, which will further enhance the safety of the environment around the schools and contribute to a safer, more integrated network for the Corbally area.