The Shannon River Bridge is a component of the intended coast-to-coast greenway between Galway and Dublin. The 104-meter-long bridge, which connected the two sides of the town of Athlone, cost €15 million to construct.

The new bridge, according to Athlone's mayor Louise Heavin, will boost tourism and the regional economy.

“You are aware that the river divides the town of Athlone. It used to be between Westmeath and Roscommon.”

“The pathway on the current bridge is quite congested. It may be challenging for bikes to cross alongside cars, so this new bridge is wonderful.”

“The town's greenway system is now being very effectively utilised. It is used by people to travel to businesses and schools.”

The bridge is “good for tourism and the local economy,” Ms. Heavin continued.

Padraig Cooke, a cyclist who belongs to the Shannonside Cycle Club, expressed excitement about exploring new stretches of the greenway.

The western side of the town is now accessible to us thanks to the bridge,” he remarked.

“Normally, we may travel along the greenway in an easterly direction towards Mullingar, but perhaps now that the bridge is up, we can investigate a westerly route and anticipate the greenway's development to Galway.

“It will provide us fantastic possibilities to go on longer journeys, and it raises awareness of the river and provides fresh perspectives of Athlone for the general population. It's an excellent amenity,” according to Mr. Cooke.