U.S. Route 78

U.S. Route 78 (US 78) is a significant east–west corridor spanning approximately 844 miles across the southeastern United States. In November 2023, the highway’s western terminus was extended from Memphis, Tennessee, to Swifton, Arkansas, marking a notable expansion into northeast Arkansas . This extension incorporates a series of concurrencies with existing highways and interstates, aiming to streamline regional connectivity and bolster economic development.

Beginning at the interchange of I-57 and US 67 near Swifton, US 78 follows Arkansas Highway 226 (AR 226) southeast toward Jonesboro. In Jonesboro, the route merges with US 49 and US 63 before joining Interstate 555 (I-555). After diverging from I-555, US 78 continues eastward, running concurrently with AR 18 through towns such as Lake City, Monette, and Manila, eventually reaching Blytheville. From Blytheville, US 78 aligns with I-55 southward, crossing the Mississippi River via the Memphis & Arkansas Bridge into Tennessee

Beyond Memphis, US 78 traverses Mississippi and Alabama, largely paralleling Interstate 22 (I-22), which has absorbed much of its original alignment in these states. The highway continues through Georgia, serving as a vital link between Atlanta and the eastern suburbs, before entering South Carolina. US 78 concludes its journey in Charleston, providing access to one of the nation’s historic port cities. Throughout its course, US 78 intersects with major transportation arteries, including I-20, I-55, I-65, and I-26, underscoring its role in facilitating regional mobility and commerce.