Following a judicial review the way has been cleared for the 40 million euro project, which includes a new bridge, a bypass and other works, to go to tender while compulsory purchase orders will also be undertaken.
The twin-towns are currently linked by a single lane 14th century bridge.
It's thought the works will have a huge knock-on benefit for the entire Lough Derg region.
While he will not be part of the incoming Government, Labour's Alan Kelly says there should be no concerns about funding for the second crossing which is included in the Capital Investment Plan for 2016 – 2021.
