Dublin's new 99 as Phoenix Park bus route is launched
Dublin Bus has launched its new bus route in the Phoenix Park aimed at giving park users an alternative to private cars.
Route 99 will start operating from Sunday, October 8, making the Phoenix Park and its attractions more accessible via public transport.
Minister of State for Transport Jack Chambers joined the National Transport Authority and Dublin Bus to launch the new service today.
“This brand-new service will benefit all users of the Phoenix Park, including the local communities, residents across Dublin, visitors from all over Ireland and international tourists,” Minister Chambers said.
“It is important that people have more opportunities to access and enjoy the park.”
He highlighted the importance of public transport and the role it plays in replacing private cars and freeing up roads in the capital.
“This has been spoken about for many years. It gives people the option to use public transport, it’s a positive alternative,” he said.
“Sustainable transport alternatives are an essential contribution to freeing up Dublin’s roads and making the city more accessible to all.
“Government is pleased to support expansions in public transport like this as we strive to meet our climate goals.
“We have, for the first time in decades, reduced fares. We’re continuing to work on public transport,” he added.
Route 99 will run every 30 minutes seven days a week between the Phoenix Park Visitors Centre and Parkgate Street. The first bus leaves at 9am and the last bus will depart at 6pm.
The distance is considered to be a ‘short journey’, so the standalone fare will be €1.30 and 65c for children on a Leap Card.
Stops will include popular visitor attractions like Dublin Zoo, the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre, Áras an Uachtaráin and the Phoenix Monument.
The Office of Public Works, the NTA, Dublin County Council and Fingal County Council, identified the need for a bus service in the park to help reduce private car usage, enhance sustainable transportation, and minimise the impact of vehicles on the park and its surroundings.
Roderic O’Gorman, the Minister for Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth, also attended the launch. He spoke about how road safety is “paramount”.
“Safety on our roads is absolutely paramount, this government has put money into improving safety on our national roads, this is more than what was done in the previous government,” he said.
“The focus is on road safety and upgrading. This government is spending more on roads than previous governments.”
Minister O’Gorman also discussed the upcoming budget and reducing costs for parents.
“We’re hoping to bring more funds into childcare, bring more childminders into the system to support parents and children, there’s more work to be done over the next number of days,” he said.
“I hope on budget day next week that we’ll be able to continue our progress in reducing the cost of childcare.”
