By Eoin Ryan
A Rural Cycleway plan between Navan and Trim and a BusIt2school scheme are coming to Meath as part of the Pathfinder Programme being introduced across Ireland.
Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan launched the programme on 17 October 2022 to enable a shift towards cleaner transport choices such as cycling and public transport. 35 transport projects across the country are a part of this which are to be completed by local authorities and agencies within the next 3 years.
The programme is a major part of the National Sustainable Mobility Policy, a plan to reduce Ireland’s greenhouse gas emissions in the transport sector by 50% before 2030. The policy also expects to reduce the number of kilometres driven in fossil fueled cars by 10% and deliver half a million additional active travel and public transport journeys by 2030.
“Shortlisted projects, while all unique, have three key things in common. They are innovative. They are ambitious. And critically, they will be delivered at speed,” Eamon Ryan said.
“The Leadership Group through this Pathfinder Programme will continue to engage with all local authorities to ensure momentum and that the lessons and experience of the shortlisted projects are shared for everyone’s benefit.”
The rural cycleway aims to find ways of delivering rural cycleways on the verges of regional roads between Navan and Trim.
The BusIt2School scheme in Navan will be working with schools and along the town’s bus routes to encourage students to use town bus services instead of cars.
Michael Mulhern, Director of Planning and Transport in South Dublin County Council said that interest shown by local authorities “is hugely encouraging”.
“It shows the level of commitment and ambition that each Local Authority has to deliver these projects which will drastically enhance our local walking, cycling and public transport networks.”
Meath South East News 