Bus Éireann and the National Transport Authority (NTA) launched the first ever dedicated Carlow town bus service on 27 July 2023.
In its first year of operation Bus Éireann delivered over 365,000 passenger journeys, an average of over 1,000 journeys per day by the people of Carlow.
The seven days a week services saw Bus Éireann operate almost 380,000 kms since the launch of routes CW1 and CW2, with buses running every half hour in both directions
Since the introduction of the new town service, 94% of Carlow town’s population is now within an 800-metre walk of a bus stop on the network; 64% of households are within a 400-metre walk of a bus stop.
Speaking today, Allen Parker, Bus Éireann’s Chief Customer Officer said: “As we mark the one year anniversary of the Carlow Town Bus Service, we celebrate not only a milestone in transportation but also our commitment to community and connectivity. Over the past year, this service has transformed daily commutes, reduced emissions, and strengthened the fabric of Carlow by bringing people closer together. Bus Éireann looks forward to the continued success of the Carlow Town Bus Service and to many more years of connecting Carlow with efficiency, sustainability, and care.”
Anne Graham, CEO of the NTA said: “Last year was a record year for public transport in Ireland with 311 million passenger journeys recorded. The local community in Carlow has embraced its town bus service and their response has been overwhelming. Our continued expansion of the Transport for Ireland (TFI) public transport network is indicative of the NTA’s commitment to investing in public transport services in towns nationwide, giving more people the choice to use sustainable, frequent and reliable public transport options.”
CEO of Carlow Tourism, Eileen O’Rourke added: “The new town bus service has had a very positive impact both on visitors to the town and local residents, since its introduction. It has made the town and immediate surrounding area more accessible, easy to navigate and passes immediately close to two of our main hotels which are located on the town’s outskirts, improving connectivity to the main tourist offerings. The service is noted by locals and visitors for its reliability and friendly drivers, which contribute to a welcoming impression of the town. Additionally, the affordability of the service is greatly appreciated by passengers.”