It will fund more cyclepaths across the country, with "widened footpaths and cyclist parking" introduced.
€240 million has been allocated to improve Ireland's transport infrastructure, specifically cyclepaths and greenways.
The National Transport Authority (
NTA) said that 468 sustainable transport projects will provide "high quality facilities" for cyclists and walkers across the country.
This is an increase of over €130 million compared to last year and will support the addition of 233 new projects to the NTA’s investment programme in 2021.
General projects in the scheme include the reallocation of overall road space which will include segregated cycling lanes and widened footpaths, cyclist parking, raised pedestrian crossings and reducing road width at crossing points as well as other improvements.
Among the major projects scheduled for construction this year are the Clontarf to City Centre route in Dublin, the Mahon to Marina Greenway in Cork, the Castletroy Greenway in Limerick, Parkmore Improvement Works in Galway and the Bilberry to City Centre route in Waterford.
Commenting on today’s announcement Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan said: "Today’s allocation increase marks a huge step forward in providing green sustainable mobility options to our cities, suburbs and hinterlands.
"During Covid we’ve reconnected with our local areas and can all see why and where improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure are needed.
"The projects that the NTA are funding will make a real difference to commuters and leisure seekers alike. Improving infrastructure for cycling and walking will make our cities, towns and villages more accessible and attractive for everyone.
"That’s good news for communities, and good news for the economy.
"I look forward to seeing and hopefully using the different projects that will be progressing in the months and years to come."
