Long awaited improvement works for the Bishop O' Donnell / Seamus Quirke Road are to commence on September 27.

On completion this project will transform the road into a four lane dual carriageway encompassing two new bus lanes in the west of Galway City involving an investment of €10 million.

Following a competitive tendering process the contract was awarded to Coffey Construction Ltd. Tobin Consulting Engineers are the appointed consultants for Galway City Council on the project. The expected completion date for the scheme is October 2011.

The project will incorporate 2 general traffic lanes, 2 dedicated bus lanes, 2 metre off-road cycle lanes, 2 metre footpaths in both directions, provision of 4 traffic signal junctions and one signal controlled pedestrian crossing.

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Key elements of the implementation phase will include excavation, pavement overlay/construction, road kerb construction, drainage, installation of new bus shelters, landscaping, new public lighting, service diversions, traffic signage, road markings and traffic management.

Speaking about the benefits of this key infrastructural project for Galway City, Joe Tansey Head of Galway Transportation Unit said: "We are delighted to see the commencement of this much needed scheme for the West of Galway City. This project encompassing two new bus lanes is pivotal to our aim of alleviating traffic congestion by building and strengthening our public transport network in the City.

"We appreciate that the rollout of this project will cause disruption to the travelling public and we ask for their cooperation and support during the implementation phase, which on completion will significantly increase the attractiveness of public transport in Galway City."

(GK)