26 February 1998 Edition
SF wants Limerick traffic strategy
By Marcas Mac Ruairí
SINN Féin in Limerick has called on the city Corporation to develop a comprehensive strategy to manage growing traffic congestion.
By-election candidate in the city, Jenny Shapland said, ``Despite the construction of new roads and the expansion of old ones, progress in developing the transport infrastructure of the city has been slow.
``There should be a penalty system introduced on contractors who fail to complete road schemes within a reasonable and agreed time frame,'' she said.
``The amount of car parks serving the city is inadequate, resulting in motorists cruising the streets seeking somewhere to park. But ultimately it is through the proper development of the public transport system that traffic congestion and the accompanying pollution can be tackled.
``There should be a park and ride system where motorists can safely park in a special car park outside of the city for a minimal cost and get a free ride in and out of town.
``Bus lanes would ensure the free flow of buses. Rail lines go through most areas of Limerick and we should be looking more closely at the possibility of utilising trains for people who wish to commute into town.
``If these steps could be taken they would have a huge impact. With the city centre freed up, there would be a major commercial spin-off as shops become more accessible to visitors and residents in Limerick alike,'' Shapland concluded.
Jenny Shapland is the Sinn Féin candidate for the Limerick East by-election to be held on March 11.
SINN Féin in Limerick has called on the city Corporation to develop a comprehensive strategy to manage growing traffic congestion.
By-election candidate in the city, Jenny Shapland said, ``Despite the construction of new roads and the expansion of old ones, progress in developing the transport infrastructure of the city has been slow.
``There should be a penalty system introduced on contractors who fail to complete road schemes within a reasonable and agreed time frame,'' she said.
``The amount of car parks serving the city is inadequate, resulting in motorists cruising the streets seeking somewhere to park. But ultimately it is through the proper development of the public transport system that traffic congestion and the accompanying pollution can be tackled.
``There should be a park and ride system where motorists can safely park in a special car park outside of the city for a minimal cost and get a free ride in and out of town.
``Bus lanes would ensure the free flow of buses. Rail lines go through most areas of Limerick and we should be looking more closely at the possibility of utilising trains for people who wish to commute into town.
``If these steps could be taken they would have a huge impact. With the city centre freed up, there would be a major commercial spin-off as shops become more accessible to visitors and residents in Limerick alike,'' Shapland concluded.
Jenny Shapland is the Sinn Féin candidate for the Limerick East by-election to be held on March 11.