Interstate 485 facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
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| Charlotte Outerbelt | ||||
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| Route information | ||||
| Maintained by NCDOT | ||||
| Length | 59 mi (95 km) | |||
| Existed | 1988–present | |||
| Major junctions | ||||
| Beltway around Charlotte | ||||
  I-77 / US 21 near Pineville I-85 near Charlotte I-77 in Huntersville I-85 near Concord US 74 in Matthews |
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| Location | ||||
| Counties: | Mecklenburg | |||
| Highway system | ||||
| Auxiliary route of the Interstate Highway System Main • Auxiliary • Business North Carolina Highway System
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→Interstate 485 is a major highway that goes all the way around the city of Charlotte, North Carolina. Think of it like a giant loop or ring road for the city. It's also known as the Charlotte Outerbelt. This important road helps drivers get around Charlotte without having to go through the busy city center.
The construction of Interstate 485 began in 1988. It took many years to build this large highway. The entire loop was finally completed in 2015. This made it much easier for people to travel in and out of Charlotte.
Contents
What is a Beltway?
A beltway is a highway that circles a city or urban area. Its main job is to help traffic flow smoothly. Instead of driving through crowded city streets, cars and trucks can use the beltway. This helps reduce traffic jams in the city center. It also makes travel faster for people going to different parts of the city's outskirts.
Key Facts About I-485
Interstate 485 is a long highway. It stretches for about 59 miles (95 kilometers) around Charlotte. The NCDOT is in charge of maintaining this road. They make sure it stays safe and in good condition for drivers.
Connecting Major Highways
I-485 connects with several other important highways. These connections help drivers easily switch between roads. It links up with:
- Interstate 77 near Pineville
- Interstate 85 near Charlotte
- I-77 again in Huntersville
- I-85 again near Concord
- U.S. Route 74 in Matthews
These connections are like giant ramps that let cars move from one major road to another.
Why I-485 is Important
Interstate 485 plays a big role in daily life around Charlotte. It helps people get to work, school, and other places. It also helps businesses transport goods. Without this outerbelt, traffic in Charlotte would be much worse. It makes travel more efficient for everyone.
Images for kids
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I-485 inner (north) at the interchange with I-77 south of Charlotte
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NC 24 ends at I-485, in Charlotte
