Track-laying has begun on the 42 km rail freight line from Foynes to Limerick. Work began in early 2023 and is being carried out by main contractor Sisk and Steconfer. Old wooden sleepers and track will be replaced with new concrete sleepers and rails forming a continuous welded track. The track laying is due to be completed by the end of 2024. Further construction work includes the construction of the Robertstown Viaduct, scheduled for summer 2024, and the completion of the River Deel Bridge refurbishment works. The second phase of the project includes the implementation of a signalling system, CCTV level crossings, train communication systems, and track works in Limerick and Foynes Port. Irish State Railways IE expects this work to take 18 months, subject to funding, and expects rail freight operations to begin in early 2026. The project is being funded by the Department for Transport and the National Transport Authority.
