How much for a single cat's eye? The hidden cost of Limerick roads
Councillors say ongoing delays on the R512 and R513 are leaving busy rural routes without full safety coverage
A QUERY about long-delayed road safety upgrades on two busy rural routes in east Limerick has revealed that more than €30,000 has already been spent installing cat’s eyes, yet works are still unlikely to be fully completed until at least 2026.
At the November meeting of the Cappamore–Kilmallock Municipal District, Cllr Bridgid Teefy sought an update on the installation of cat's eyes on sections of the R512 and R513 where reflective road studs have not yet been fitted. She stressed that the markers play an important role in night-time visibility and general road safety.
The cost of installing a single road stud is €30, meaning completion of long sections of regional road requires significant budget allocation. In response, acting senior executive engineer Diarmuid Sheehy confirmed that installation works are ongoing on a phased basis, with progress dependant on the availability of funding.
The council says it anticipates that installation will continue throughout 2026, again subject to funding streams. The phased approach aims to gradually improve safety conditions for motorists, though councillors are expected to continue seeking clarity and pushing for faster delivery as demand for rural road improvements grows.