PICTURES: Waterford schools celebrate official launch of Safe Routes to School projects

Two County Waterford schools are celebrating the official launch of their Safe Routes to School projects. 

Active travel infrastructure works prioritising access and safety at the front of Scoil Mhuire National School, Butlerstown, and Kilmacthomas Primary School were delivered by Waterford City and County Council in partnership with An Taisce’s Safe Routes to School unit, the National Transport Authority, and with support from the wider school communities.

A celebratory event was held at the Rainbow Community Centre in Kilmacthomas for both schools, who have embraced safer, more active journeys to school since the completion of the works.

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Among the distinguished guests in attendance were the Mayor of Waterford City and County Council Cllr. Seamus Ryan, and the Minister of State for Local Government and Planning John Cummins TD.

Mayor Seamus Ryan said: “These projects are a positive step forward, not just for the two schools involved, but for the wider communities. Projects like these help us create safer, healthier, and more sustainable spaces for our children to travel to and from school each day.

“The safety and wellbeing of our children must always be our top priority. When there is less traffic at the school gates, the environment becomes safer for everyone.”

Maria O’Connor, Principal at Scoil Mhuire National School, Butlerstown, said: “Our entire school community warmly welcomes the successful completion of the Safe Routes to School initiative. It’s great to see so many of our pupils in Butlerstown walking on our safer and wider footpaths. Families are using the park and stride facility to school each day.

“There’s a lovely buzz around the enhanced areas in the mornings, with children arriving actively and ready to learn. We’re really proud of how our Butlerstown families are embracing active routes to school. It’s a simple change that’s making a big difference to wellbeing and our school community.

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“Active travel is becoming part of who we are here in Butlerstown, and that’s something to celebrate,” she added.

Tim Ryan, Principal at Kilmacthomas Primary School, said: “On behalf of our school community, we are very grateful for the work carried out through the Safe Routes to School programme. The improvements around the school have made a real difference to the safety and accessibility of the area for our pupils.

“Supporting children to arrive at school safely each day is hugely important, and we appreciate the support provided to the school through this initiative.”

Michael Murphy, Active Travel Senior Engineer at Waterford City and County Council, said: “Safety at the front of the schools was a key priority in delivering these projects, and the improvements are helping to create a safer, more welcoming environment for everyone.

“Upgraded footpaths, pedestrian crossings, pencil bollards, seating and planting all contribute to spaces that are safer, more accessible, and more comfortable and enjoyable for pupils, their families, teachers, and the wider communities.”