Active Travel Infrastructure (ATI) in Ireland – An Asset Management Approach

Abstract Ireland is committed to boosting active travel as a key part of its decarbonisation plan. The development of Active Travel Infrastructure (ATI) which facilitates walking, cycling, and other non-motorised forms of transportation, is a focal area of Ireland's substantial capital investment efforts aimed at advancing its sustainable transportation goals. While investing in the new ATI, the aspect of ongoing maintenance and renewal is frequently overlooked. However, to ensure the realisation of the benefits of active travel, it is essential to have a sustainable asset management system accompanied by sufficient funding to uphold a consistent level of service throughout the infrastructure’s lifespan. This paper highlights the importance of a systematic management, maintenance, and renewal strategy for ATI assets that includes planned asset renewal, routine maintenance activities, and winter operations. It also proposes the funding requirements for maintaining and preserving the lifespan of existing and new ATI.