Open letter to Tralee Town Councillors

To: Terry, Deirdre, Mikey, Jim, Sam, Johnny and Cathal
Subject: The Tralee-Fenit Greenway is crucial for the town. Make it happen for next summer.

Dear Councillors,
Alongside many communities around the country and around the world, we are currently in a state of crisis, and how we rise to this challenge will define our town for decades. Tralee has a proud and rich history and those who came before us made certain we rode the first waves of prosperity in a free and independent republic. It is now our collective responsibility to ensure we do not flounder in the backwash left from the current crisis.
It is often said that progress is not about taking big steps in the future, but that progress comes about by taking small steps right now. One small step in the right direction for Tralee would be to speed up the works on the Tralee-Fenit Greenway and make sure it is completed for June next year. The current estimated completion time is Autumn 2021, and we urge you to expedite the project and complete it before next summer for the following reasons:

1. Tralee urgently needs a new story to hang our hat on, a new story that will make us stand out, a new story that will generate column inches and help us compete with other markets..
2. The greenway will have a very positive impact on the mental health of the people of Tralee. More than ever we need safe open outdoor spaces for people of all ages and abilities. The greenway will lift our spirits.
3. The greenway will have a very positive impact on tourism, but we need to start promoting the greenway this winter if we are going to reap the benefits next summer.
4. The greenway will deliver extra revenues and economic activity for the town and surrounding areas. Tourists will stay here longer and spend more money.
5. Businesses that are hanging on by a thread will fight harder, knowing there is a boost coming next summer, and jobs will be saved.
6. New enterprises will be started to service the greenway and jobs will be created.
7. The greenway will make Tralee an increasingly attractive place to live and work, at a time when people and companies are embracing remote working.
8. The greenway will make Tralee a more attractive place to study and boost our university town appeal.
9. The funding for the greenway has already been allocated.
10. The greenway will boost morale locally and that positivity will permeate all areas of our community. It is a good news story will translate well nationally and internationally.
11. We are facing a long winter of uncertainty, but the cold dark nights will be easier on everyone if we can look forward to reaping the benefits of the greenway for the entirety of next summer. People of all ages and all abilities will benefit hugely from being able to get out into nature and adventure safely along the route. High nellies will be restored, walking boots will be dusted off and new trainers purchased. Businesses will begin to plan for the arrival of tourists. New enterprises will emerge. People will begin to dream again. Hope will replace fear.
12. The benefits are clear and there is very sound economic and social rationale to speed up the works on the greenway. We urge you to make this happen for the sake of the town.

Signed,