A revised business case for Dublin's proposed MetroLink project includes a budget allocation of up to €500 million to construct dedicated accommodation for building personnel, as transport authorities move to prevent the massive rail project from exacerbating local housing shortages.

Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has held discussions with the Land Development Agency (LDA) to construct housing units for between 1,500 and 2,000 workers. Under plans under consideration, the accommodation would revert to State ownership once construction on the 19km railway line is complete, providing a long-term addition to public housing stock.

The updated business plan estimates the total cost of the MetroLink project at between €14.5 billion and €17.5 billion. The projected figures reflect significant construction industry inflation since earlier estimates were compiled prior to the submission of a planning application in late 2022.

Transport officials previously told an Oireachtas committee that an estimated 8,000 workers will be required over the course of the construction phase. Because domestic labor and technical capacity are already stretched by nationwide housing and infrastructure demands, officials noted that main contracts will likely involve international firms bringing specialized personnel from abroad to supplement the local workforce.

When completed, the 19km line will run largely underground from Swords in north County Dublin through Dublin Airport and the city centre to Charlemont on the south side, serving 16 stations.