The €7.3 million Phase One of the Trim Road Cycle and Pedestrian Scheme in Navan was officially opened on Friday.
The 1.2km-long project extends along the R161 from the Beechmount Avenue junction on the Trim Road to Railway Street, connecting with the recently constructed roundabout at the Solstice Arts Centre.
Mayor of Navan Cllr Eddie Fennessy (Sinn Féin) said: “The area has been completely transformed through the development of over 1km of segregated cycle facilities. Widened footpaths and landscaping on both sides of road. Two new pedestrian crossings. The installation of infrastructure to aid the rollout of the CCTV network. Significant drainage improvements, underground service diversions and fibre linking traffic signals.”
He added: “I thank the Council, local schools and businesses in the area and the residents for their co-operation during the construction period. The local community can look forward to enjoying the benefits of this infrastructure for many years to come.”
An Cathaoirleach Cllr Sharon Tolan stated: “I am so honoured to be here today at the opening of the Trim Road Cycle and Pedestrian Scheme which, for so many reasons, will provide immense benefits to the people of Navan.
She added: “This opening represents a major step forward in enhancing connectivity and promoting active travel in Navan by providing safer high-quality cycling and walking environment for the people of the town.”
Kieran Kehoe, chief executive of Meath County Council, said: “This project creates enhanced accessible pedestrian links to and from the town centre, provides safe cycling and pedestrian routes to several schools, forms key links to local communities, businesses, and amenities, and reduces dependence on private vehicles in turn supporting healthier, more sustainable lifestyles.”
“I am delighted, in particular, that the enhanced accessibility the route provides will encourage people of all ages to choose active travel as their main form of transport,” he said.
He added: On behalf of Meath County Council, I would like to acknowledge the co-operation of all residents, business owners and affected property owners along the route together with all road users during the construction phase of the project.”
Anthony Morrow, senior programme manager at the National Transport Authority, said: “The delivery of this scheme by Meath County Council further enhances the pedestrian environment and cycling facilities in and around Navan. Investing in infrastructure like this will give people more choices when it come to how they move around and will encourage more people to choose sustainable travel, especially for shorter journeys.”
