Minister Varadkar welcomes opening of N52 Carrickbridge to Clonfad Road, 3 Months Early.
Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar has welcomed the National Roads Authority’s opening of a €22 million stretch of road on the strategic N52 national secondary route in Westmeath.
“Although the roads building programme is largely frozen due to the ongoing economic crisis, some work has still been progressing. The N52 Carrickbridge to Clonfad road is one such scheme and will significantly improve a route between the north east and the south west of the country. Any motorist who uses this route will appreciate the significant improvement provided by this new stretch of road, which should reduce journey times by a third and significantly improve safety,” Minister Varadkar said.
The total budget for this project was €22 million and was completed three months ahead of schedule. Built by Jons Civil Engineering Company Ltd based in Duleek, County Meath, Jons Civil has over 28 years experience in the successful delivery of infrastructural projects in Ireland, specialising in the innovative execution of complex Civil Engineering projects. www.jonscivil.ie
Minister Varadkar said the Government can only provide funding for roads which are currently being built, or which have gone out to tender, and for the restoration of existing roads. Nonetheless, in 2013 the Government will complete:
• The Belturbet Bypass,
• Cork Southern Ring Road Interchanges upgrade
• Tralee Bypass,
• The N4 Downs Grade Separation.
“However, there are proposals to introduce a new community involvement scheme for regional and local roads on a pilot basis in 2013 involving a total Exchequer contribution of between €5 and €10 million. This revised scheme should allow communities and the State to share the cost, or the workload, involved in repairing minor roads which wouldn’t otherwise be improved,” Minister Varadkar said.
Fred Barry, CEO of the National Roads Authority said: “The N52 Carrickbridge to Clonfad scheme delivers a safe and efficient section of new national secondary road three months ahead of schedule. I would like to congratulate all those involved with its delivery.”