Building bridges in the wrong places 

Despite the Corrib’s formidable reputation as the second fastest river in Europe, we only have four crossings. Naturally, a new one caused considerable excitement. But would it have killed them to put it in the right place?  

Though many people with a lot of free time consider the placement of the bridge to be a crime against pedestrians, I must admit I think the whole affair is hilarious.   

Irish government bodies tend to make questionable decisions, but this one takes the biscuit. To solve the problem of students crossing the Salmon Weir Bridge to get to college, a new pedestrian bridge was built- on the same side of the road they were crossing from.  

Three million euro later, and students now no longer have to cross at the courthouse. Instead, they can do it at the cathedral, on a much safer chicane bend. I’m not sure about the rest of you, but as a pedestrian I feel seen and heard.   

This decision wasn’t a total failure. I don’t have to try and overtake American pensioners overdosing on Irish culture anymore as I rush to the 424 bus at the speed of a sprinting toddler. Instead, I can bound over the bridge, as I skip home after a day of not listening in lectures.  

Despite this, I still feel as though if the Republic of Telly (rest in peace) had presented this project in a skit about Irish planning, they would have been told to be more subtle with their ridicule.   

I’m no engineer. I’m sure there’s a few “uh actually…” types of reasons for them not building it on the other side, and knowing engineers I will hear these reasons whether I want to or not. Have you considered though, that it’s more fun to point and laugh?  

All this being said, I’m quite pleased we got a new bridge. I’m sure it’ll wear off, but for the moment the novelty of it keeps me going and directs my gaze away from the already shattered glass at the west end of it.   

I mean, what else would they have spent the money on? More buses to the college? Ah now, cop on.