Interstate 97 (I-97) — Maryland freeway connecting Annapolis and Baltimore

Characteristics and route

I-97 is a relatively short, two-digit Interstate that follows a generally north–south alignment. Its termini tie into higher-capacity routes: at the southern end the freeway connects with major east–west routes serving the Chesapeake Bay region and the city of Annapolis, while the northern end meets the Baltimore beltway and other radial routes serving the city and suburbs. The highway is fully grade-separated and built to Interstate standards for controlled access and higher speed travel.

Major interchanges and connections

• Connection to US-numbered routes that provide access toward the Eastern Shore and Washington–Baltimore corridor.
• Interchanges with regional state highways that distribute traffic to suburban communities in Anne Arundel and Baltimore counties.
• Termination at the Baltimore beltway, allowing through travel to central Baltimore or circumferential travel around the metropolitan area.

History and development

The corridor served by I-97 was developed in the late 20th century to improve travel between Maryland’s capital region and Baltimore. Construction proceeded in segments, upgrading older surface and express routes into a continuous limited-access Interstate. Over time, additional interchanges and improvements were added to handle commuter growth and changing traffic patterns while meeting federal Interstate standards.

Uses and importance

I-97 plays a key role for daily commuters traveling between suburban communities and employment centers in Annapolis and Baltimore. It also supports commercial movements and provides a direct route for access to military and naval facilities located near the state capital. Because it links the Annapolis area to the interstate beltway around Baltimore, it is an important connector within the regional transportation network.

Notable facts and distinctions

At 17.62 miles, I-97 is notable for being the shortest numbered two-digit Interstate in the United States. It is one of the Interstate highways that lies entirely within a single state and is unusual for its short length relative to its two-digit designation. For additional context about the state and country where the route exists, see Maryland and the United States. For information about the southern terminus city, consult resources on Annapolis.