The Royal Canal Greenway is a 130km off-road walking and cycling route that stretches from Dublin to Longford. The greenway follows the route of the Royal Canal, which was first opened in 1817 and was once a vital transport route for goods and people.

The development of the Royal Canal Greenway began in 2015 with the establishment of the Royal Canal Greenway Steering Group, which was made up of representatives from local authorities, state agencies, and community groups. The aim of the steering group was to develop a plan for the greenway that would enhance the natural and cultural heritage of the canal while also promoting sustainable tourism and economic development in the surrounding areas.

Funding for the Royal Canal Greenway has come from a variety of sources, including the European Union, the Irish government, and local authorities. In 2018, the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) provided €6.5 million in funding for the greenway, with an additional €1.7 million provided by the Irish government. This funding was used to support the development of the greenway, including the construction of new walking and cycling paths, the installation of new signage and information points, and the improvement of existing infrastructure.

In addition to this, the Royal Canal Greenway has received funding from local authorities along the route, including Fingal County Council, Westmeath County Council, and Longford County Council. This funding has been used to support the ongoing maintenance and development of the greenway, including the provision of public facilities such as toilets and picnic areas.

Overall, the budget for the development of the Royal Canal Greenway has been significant, with a total cost of approximately €12 million. However, this investment is expected to generate significant economic benefits for the surrounding areas, including increased tourism revenue and job creation.

In conclusion, the development of the Royal Canal Greenway has been a significant undertaking, requiring significant investment from a variety of sources. However, this investment is expected to generate significant economic and social benefits for the surrounding areas, while also providing a valuable recreational resource for local communities and visitors alike.

The Dublin City Cycling Network Plan (DCCNP) was launched in September 2013 and aims to transform Dublin into a more cycle-friendly city. The DCCNP is a 5-year plan, which means it has a deadline of 2018. However, the plan has seen some delays and is still ongoing as of 2023.

The DCCNP includes proposals for the construction of a 900-kilometer cycling network throughout Dublin, which would include new and improved cycling infrastructure such as segregated cycle lanes, cycle tracks, and cycle parking facilities. The plan also includes proposals for the introduction of new cycling safety measures and the expansion of the city’s bike share scheme.

The proposed budget for the DCCNP is €160 million, with €80 million of funding coming from the Irish government and €80 million from the European Investment Bank. In addition to this, Dublin City Council has allocated an additional €20 million to the project.

The DCCNP has been implemented in phases, with the first phase of the plan focusing on the city center. This phase, which was completed in 2018, saw the construction of new cycle lanes and the introduction of cycle-friendly measures such as the removal of parking spaces and the installation of bike parking facilities.

The second phase of the plan, which was due to be completed in 2020, focuses on the city’s suburbs and proposes the construction of new cycle tracks and improved cycling infrastructure in areas such as Clontarf, Crumlin, and Rathmines. However, due to funding and other issues, this phase has been delayed and is still ongoing.

Overall, the DCCNP has been a significant investment in cycling infrastructure in Dublin, with the aim of making the city more cycle-friendly and reducing reliance on cars. While there have been some delays and challenges, the project is still ongoing, and Dubliners can look forward to more improvements in cycling infrastructure and safety in the coming years.

Beach cruiser bikes are designed for comfortable, leisurely riding. They are often associated with beach towns and boardwalks, but they can be ridden anywhere. Their robust design makes them particularly well suited for urban environments. If you're considering buying a bike, here are some pros of buying a beach cruiser bike:

1. Comfortable riding position

One of the main benefits of a beach cruiser bike is the comfortable riding position. The seat is typically wider and the handlebars are higher than on other types of bikes, which puts you in a more upright and relaxed position. This makes it easier to ride for longer periods without experiencing discomfort in your back or neck.

2. Easy to ride

Beach cruiser bikes are also easy to ride. They have a simple design with only one or a few gears, so there's no need to worry about shifting or complicated mechanics. They also have wider tires, which makes them more stable and easier to balance.

3. Ideal for casual riding

If you're looking for a bike to take leisurely rides around the neighborhood or along a bike path, a beach cruiser is the perfect choice. Their comfortable design and simple mechanics make them ideal for casual riding at a relaxed pace.

4. Stylish design

Beach cruisers have a classic and stylish design that is instantly recognizable. They are often available in a range of fun colors and designs, which makes them a popular choice for people who want a bike that looks as good as it rides.

5. Suitable for all ages

Beach cruiser bikes are suitable for riders of all ages. They are often available in different sizes and styles, which means you can find one that's perfect for you or your child. This makes them a great choice for families who want to go on bike rides together.

6. Versatile

Despite their association with beach towns and boardwalks, beach cruisers are versatile bikes that can be ridden in many different settings. They are great for rides around the neighborhood, trips to the park, or even for commuting to work or school.

7. Low maintenance

Beach cruisers are also low maintenance bikes. They have a simple design with fewer parts than other types of bikes, which means there's less that can go wrong. They also require less maintenance and are easy to clean and care for.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a comfortable, stylish, and easy-to-ride bike for leisurely rides, a beach cruiser bike is an excellent choice. Its comfortable riding position, easy mechanics, and classic design make it a popular choice for riders of all ages and abilities.?