A new pilot scheme allowing buses to use the hard shoulder during periods of heavy traffic on the M4 in Co Kildare has come into operation.
The M4 Eastbound Hard Shoulder Bus Priority Measures Pilot Scheme has been introduced between Junction 6 at Celbridge and Junction 5 at Leixlip, providing buses with a dedicated priority route towards Dublin when traffic conditions become congested.
The initiative has been launched by Kildare County Council in partnership with the Department of Transport, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, the National Transport Authority and South Dublin County Council.
The scheme is designed to improve the efficiency of bus journeys between Co Kildare and the Greater Dublin Area, while supporting efforts to encourage greater use of public transport.
Unlike a permanent bus lane, the hard shoulder will not be available to buses at all times. The system will operate dynamically, with traffic conditions monitored to determine when the bus priority measures should be activated.
When congestion reaches the required criteria, the measures can be switched on remotely, allowing buses to move along the hard shoulder and bypass traffic. Once conditions improve, the system will be deactivated and the hard shoulder will return to its normal function.
Overhead signs and CCTV cameras have been installed along the section of the M4 to facilitate the operation and monitoring of the scheme.
Motorists travelling on the route are being urged to pay close attention to the new signage and follow the instructions in place. Taxis and other vehicles are not permitted to use the bus priority measures.
Kildare County Council has also reminded drivers that the motorway hard shoulder should not be entered except in an emergency or where specific authorisation has been given.
The council has urged motorists to observe speed limits, avoid distractions and never use a mobile phone while driving.
The pilot was progressed through the Part 8 planning process by Kildare County Council’s National Roads Office. Transport Infrastructure Ireland’s Network Operations Team delivered the project in conjunction with the MMaRC contractor.
The trial is expected to provide information that can help shape the development of similar bus priority measures on motorways elsewhere in the country.
