During the 1980s and 1990s, a 25 km (16 mi) section between Killarney and the border with County Cork was rebuilt and widened.

[2][3] The N22 between Killarney and Cork via Macroom is the N71 which goes through Kenmare, Glengarriff, Bantry, Skibbereen, Clonakilty and finally Bandon.

Four major projects are in planning for the N22: Additionally there are proposals for 2+1 road upgrades to the Killarney – Ballyvourney section.

The Cork Northern Ring Road is currently in planning, and consists of 17 km (11 mi) of dual carriageway.

The most popular sculpture is that of a rearing horse, set atop a rise along the road near Clonkeen.