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Bridge
brings increased traffic
THERE
has been a 12 per cent increase in traffic over the
West Link bridges since the second bridge was opened.
The new bridge was recently officially opened by An
Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, who described it as a triumph
in civil engineering.
“The
West Link bridges will make a significant contribution
to the greater management of traffic in Dublin,”
he said. “Since the new bridge was opened we have
seen an increase in traffic of 12 per cent in the number
of cars going through the tolls at peak times.
“It
is estimated that this will mean a saving of between
12 and 15 minutes in journey times for commuters during
peak periods.”
The new bridge cost $23 million and took 24 months to
construct. NTR say it was completed on time and within
budget.
Average daily traffic at the West Link is 78,000 vehicles
and 83,000 vehicles during the working week. Average
throughput at peak hour is now 7,300 vehicles.
NTR chairman, Tom Roche, said the project demonstrated
the success and benefit of public and private partnership.
“Each
of the three bridges completed by NTR have been undertaken
at no risk to the State,” he said. “While
at the same time delivering substantial benefits to
the motoring public and to the development of Dublin’s
infrastructure.”
An
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern is pictured with 3-year-old
Zoe Elliott at the recent official opening of the
second West Link bridge
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