A newly opened pedestrian and cycle bridge crossing the Shannon in Athlone is a major economic opportunity for the region.
That's the view of Minister of State with the Department of Transport, Jack Chambers, who cut the ribbon on the 15 million euro project this morning.
The Greenway Bridge now forms a midway point on the planned Dublin to Galway Greenway, a 270 kilometre route spanning the width of the country.
Speaking at the opening, Minister Chamber described the structure as a vital investment in connecting the East and West of Ireland.