A fatal accident on New Street in Cahersiveen is almost inevitable, according to a group of concerned residents and business owners.
They made a presentation to the recent Kenmare Municipal District meeting, urging urgent action.
Councillors described the street as potentially the worst in the municipality, the country, or even Europe.
Council officials heard that serious incidents are frequent, including overturned vehicles, near misses with pedestrians, and property damage.
Bryan Sheehan, of the Domestic Appliance & Plumbing Centre, said crashes are common.
A cyclist was recently knocked off their bike, and a car crashed into a house.
He described the footpaths as “dreadful”, blaming the narrow road.
He said lorries and cars are forced onto the pavements, putting pedestrians at risk.
Mr Sheehan added that parked vehicles are regularly damaged.
Local resident Mary Bernie O’Connor said cars often mount the kerb outside her home, making it dangerous to step outside her front door.
District engineer Pádraic Teahan explained that New Street is a national secondary road, meaning Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) is responsible for funding and decisions.
He said Kerry County Council has prioritised the project but cannot move forward due to lack of funding from TII in 2024 and 2025.
Design funding is not expected before 2026.
While Mr Teahan believes a full engineering solution is needed, residents and councillors are calling for immediate safety measures.
Cathaoirleach Norma Moriarty proposed relocating parking, installing temporary bollards, and other interim steps.
Council officials are open to temporary works but warned these are complex, require statutory approval, and could be slow.
Mr Teahan also warned that piecemeal works might jeopardise funding for a permanent fix.
Residents and councillors accused the authorities of prioritising economics over human life, and neglecting South Kerry, comparing the situation unfavourably with places like Killarney.
Mr Sheehan said local businesses may have to reconsider paying commercial rates if the issue is not addressed.
Council management pledged to continue pressing the case with TII.
