American engineering firm Jacobs has been appointed by Iarnród Éireann (Irish Rail) as a multi-disciplinary consultant to support a significant railway infrastructure programme along the Galway to Portarlington corridor. The 140-kilometre route, which forms part of the Western region’s rail network, will be modernised and expanded in line with the ambitions outlined in the All Island Strategic Rail Review.
This project is a key element of Ireland’s broader vision for improved regional connectivity and reduced reliance on private vehicles, supporting the country’s climate and sustainable development goals.
Four-year framework for capacity and decarbonisation planning
Under a four-year framework agreement, with the possibility of a four-year extension, Jacobs will deliver a range of consultancy services across the early phases of the project. These include pre-feasibility studies, full feasibility assessments, and preferred option selection.
The scope of work will examine how best to deliver additional track capacity, higher service frequencies, increased speeds, and progress towards decarbonisation of the line. The Galway–Portarlington route currently serves as a vital connection between the Western region and Dublin, with potential to further enhance economic and social accessibility across the corridor.
Keith Lawson, Executive Vice President at Jacobs, commented:
“This major improvement project aims to significantly enhance capacity, reduce journey times and increase service frequency for passengers, improving connectivity for communities and businesses. The complexity of this program necessitates an integrated approach encompassing transport planning, stakeholder engagement, environmental considerations, urban development and more. The scale of our team in Ireland brings diverse capabilities to seamlessly integrate these solutions to support the country’s evolving transport needs.”
A step forward in Ireland’s climate and mobility goals
The upgrade forms part of Irish Rail’s infrastructure investment programme under Project Ireland 2040, supported by the National Transport Authority and aligned with the National Development Plan 2018–2027. The project aims to encourage compact growth, promote sustainable mobility, and contribute to the national transition to a climate-neutral and climate-resilient society.
Jim Meade, Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann, stated:
“At Iarnród Éireann we are delighted that a study is underway on these key infrastructure developments. We believe strongly that providing frequent and reliable rail services to more and more communities will greatly assist in reducing reliance on private cars and will go a long way to meeting Ireland’s climate action targets.”
Jacobs expands portfolio of infrastructure support in Ireland
The consultancy appointment adds to Jacobs’ growing portfolio of transport infrastructure work across Ireland. Key projects already underway include Irish Rail’s East Coast Railway Infrastructure Protection Projects, the National Transport Authority’s BusConnects Dublin and BusConnects Cork programmes, the Dunkettle Interchange Upgrade, and Cork County Council’s M28 motorway scheme.
Jacobs’ operations in Ireland span multiple sectors, including advanced manufacturing, cities and places, energy, environmental, life sciences, water, and transportation.
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