LAS VEGAS ( KLAS ) – A viewer question about the 215 beltway.
Alyssa writes:
“Why is the 215 called an Interstate when it just stays in the valley? Are there plans to finish it so it’s a complete circle?”
There’s a lot to unpack there, Alyssa.
First: 3-digit interstate freeways can be connectors between other highways – or bypass loops, like I-465 around indianapolis. They don’t have to go between states like 2 digit freeways. Wikipedia says there are more than 300 3-digit interstates.
And here’s something that folks may not pay attention to or even care about: “I-215” is only the 12 miles or so between I-15 and the 95 / I-11 in Henderson.
West of I-15 it’s “Clark County” 215 – *not* an interstate – all the way up and around until the so-called “Northern Beltway” connects again with I-15 near the Las Vegas Motor Speedway.
Because Nellis Air Force base owns a lot of land in the northeast valley, there are no current plans to complete a 215 loop around the valley.
Alyssa has another question about the 215 that we’ll answer in our next report.
Buckle up, drive carefully – and, please put down that phone!
You’re welcome join the “Driving You Crazy” conversation: just email traffic8@8newsnow.com.
