Calls have been made at every level with local Councillors, Senators and TDs pushing for movement on the scheme.

Roscommon received the highest amount in the region with almost 73 million euro.

Previous plans to upgrade the road with a bypass of Knockcroghery were suspended last year by Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

A substantial grant is expected for the plans to progress through design and environmental stages.

A substantial grant is expected for the route in this year's TII roads announcement it emerged today.

15 incidents on the stretch between Athlone and Ballinasloe were categorised as high priority involving accidents, vehicles on fire, or obstructions.

Councillor Enda McGloin believes a greenway taking in parts of Leitrim, Roscommon, and Cavan would attract tourism to the region.

The petition has received almost 1,000 signatures.