Waterford Mayor calls for decisive action over traffic issues
Waterford City and County Mayor, Cllr Seamus Ryan has called for decisive action on Waterford’s transport and congestion challenges following latest traffic analysis. Stock image
Waterford City and County Mayor, Cllr Seamus Ryan has called for decisive action on Waterford’s transport and congestion challenges following latest traffic analysis.
Mayor Ryan, welcomed the publication of the INRIX Global Traffic Scorecard as an important opportunity to focus attention on practical, solutions-driven measures to support smoother journeys across the city.
The report highlighted the travel times and delays experienced by drivers and reinforced the case for continued investment in transport options and infrastructure that meet the needs of a growing city.
Mayor Ryan said: “Our city is vibrant, ambitious and expanding and that success naturally brings increased pressure on our roads. While congestion levels here are not among the worst in Ireland, the day-to-day experience of many commuters shows there is real scope to improve how people move around the city.”
Mayor Ryan noted that traffic management is a complex challenge, shaped by national as well as local factors.
“The car remains an essential part of daily life, and we need to accept that cars are still the dominant form of travel for many people," he said.
"This is not unique to our city, it’s a national issue reflecting years of underinvestment at national level in sustainable alternatives that give people genuine choice in how they travel," he added
Drawing on his long experience representing Waterford and consistently advocating for practical, workable transport solutions, Mayor Ryan highlighted several key priorities: Enhanced public transport - the Mayor has long supported more affordable, reliable and accessible public transport, including proposals such as a monthly climate ticket to encourage greater uptake and ease pressure on city roads; Balanced transport planning - while fully supportive of sustainable and active travel, Mayor Ryan emphasised the importance of getting designs right for everyone and he recently engaged constructively on proposals for the Inner Ring Road, underlining the need for solutions that enhance safety and traffic flow for all users; Making the most of existing infrastructure - ongoing discussions around potential new crossings and improvements at key junctions such as the Butlerstown Roundabout present real opportunities to address pinch points, support economic activity and improve safety for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians alike.
“The key is a pragmatic, people-centred approach," said the Mayor.
"By working closely with communities, transport agencies and Government, we can deliver improvements that people actually feel, whether through better bus services, smarter traffic management or targeted investment where it will have the greatest impact," he added. “Traffic challenges are not fixed or inevitable. With leadership, coordination and a clear focus on outcomes, we can continue to make journeys around our city quicker, safer and more sustainable for everyone who lives, works and travels through our city.”
