Interstate 22 facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Interstate 22
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Route information
Length	213.00 mi (342.79 km)
Existed	2013–present
Major junctions
West end	I-269 near Memphis, Tennessee
East end	I-65 / US 31 in Birmingham, Alabama
Highway system
Main route of the Interstate Highway System Main • Auxiliary • Business

Interstate 22 is an important highway in the United States. It helps people travel quickly between different states. This road connects the city of Memphis, Tennessee, in the west, all the way to Birmingham, Alabama, in the east. It's part of a big network of roads called the Interstate Highway System.

What is Interstate 22?

Interstate 22, often called I-22, is a modern highway designed for fast and safe travel. It stretches for about 213 miles (343 kilometers). This highway was officially opened in 2013, making it one of the newer Interstate roads in the country. It helps connect communities and makes it easier for cars and trucks to move goods and people.

Where Does I-22 Go?

I-22 starts near Memphis, Tennessee, where it connects with another highway called Interstate 269. From there, it travels southeast through the state of Mississippi. It passes through several counties in Mississippi, including DeSoto, Marshall, Benton, Union, Pontotoc, Lee, and Itawamba.

After crossing into Alabama, I-22 continues its journey east. It goes through Marion, Walker, and Jefferson counties in Alabama. Finally, it ends in the big city of Birmingham, Alabama. In Birmingham, it connects with Interstate 65 and U.S. Route 31, which are also very busy roads.

Why Was I-22 Built?

Before I-22 was completed, much of its path followed an older road called U.S. Route 78. This older road was often crowded and not as safe for high-speed travel. The idea for I-22 came from a plan called "Corridor X." This plan was part of the Appalachian Development Highway System.

The main goal of Corridor X was to improve transportation in the Appalachian region. This area needed better roads to help its economy grow. By building I-22, engineers created a modern, four-lane highway. This new road makes travel faster, safer, and more efficient for everyone. It also helps businesses by making it easier to transport goods.

How Long is I-22?

Interstate 22 is approximately 213 miles long. This distance makes it a medium-length Interstate highway. Most of its length is in Mississippi, with a significant portion also in Alabama. The construction of such a long road takes many years and a lot of planning. It involves building bridges, overpasses, and exits to connect with local roads.

Images for kids

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  Western terminus at I-269 in Byhalia, MS

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  Eastern terminus at I-65 in Birmingham, AL as of 2016

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  Eastbound I-22 in Potts Camp

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  Corridor X ADHS shields in Marion County