Killarney is set to launch a new shuttle bus service aimed at alleviating persistent traffic congestion in the popular tourist destination.
According to Kerry County Council’s director of roads services, Frank Hartnett, the shuttle service, comprising three buses operating seven days a week, will be operational “imminently.”
The buses will run from 6am to 11pm, providing pick-up and drop-off services to key locations throughout the area.
This service is part of a newly established transport program for Killarney, funded by the National Transport Authority.
A management structure, overseen by the Local Link Service, is already in place to manage the shuttle operation.
“They are finalising routes and travel plans. It is imminent,” Mr Hartnett stated.
At a recent meeting of Kerry County Council’s Killarney Municipal District, concerns were raised about escalating traffic issues, particularly during peak hours.
Councillor Marie Moloney advocated for the shuttle service to be accessible to school students, while Councillor Brendan Cronin expressed concerns about the impact of cycle lanes, claiming they limited the space available for dedicated bus lanes. Mr Cronin elaborated:
Locations for park-and-ride facilities are being identified to encourage commuters to leave their vehicles on the outskirts of town, thereby reducing congestion on main routes into Killarney.
The council has indicated that the shuttle bus routes will be “flexible” and offer corner-to-corner drop-offs.
The meeting emphasized that persistent traffic congestion is deterring visitors, negatively impacting local businesses.
The local chamber of commerce has identified traffic chaos as the town’s most pressing concern.
The N22 Farranfore to Killarney Road Project, delayed by over 20 years, is viewed by many as the ultimate solution to the area’s congestion problems.
Originally unveiled in 2003, the 27km road project was shelved due to funding shortages during the economic downturn.
Now estimated to cost upwards of €200 million, the project is undergoing renewed planning and design procedures.
Proposed inner relief roads for Killarney could potentially divert as many as 5,000 vehicles away from the town center, according to statements made at the council meeting.
