In recent area campaign stops, the two candidates running for Alabama governor — Democrat Ron Sparks and Republican Robert Bentley — spoke on the importance of the Interstate 22 Corridor and its significance to not only the state, but in their future plans.

With both contenders touting plans that feature the expansion of new jobs and economic development, Sparks and Bentley see the opening of I-22 as a catalyst to opening Alabama’s economic future.

Bentley, who made a stop in Double Springs in early July, said it was essential that the new interstate is completed as soon as possible for future business and economic opportunities in the area to thrive better.

“I-22 will have an outstanding impact on our state and every place it touches,” Bentley said. “It gives us a corridor from Birmingham to Memphis that will give us a tremendous area here in Walker and Winston counties for economic development. Without a good infrastructure, you cannot bring jobs into an area, and that’s a key to all of us in moving forward.

“In my plans, I’m going to appoint a highway director that understands the significance of I-22 and we’re going to make sure it’s completed,” he added.

Sparks, whose Jasper visit came in late July, stressed how the new interstate will affect area employment and the prospects of recruiting new businesses to the area.

“Interstate 22 is extremely important to this area and it’s going to be a high priority to move its opening forward as fast as we can,” he said. “We’re going to start some new projects because we can create 38,000 jobs just by starting to build roads in Alabama. I’m the only (candidate) who’s talking about a road program.”

Sparks and Bentley will face off in the general election on Nov. 2.

Sparks defeated Seventh District Congressman Artur Davis for the Democratic party nomination, while Bentley defeated the former Chancellor of Alabama’s two-year college system, Bradley Byrne, for the Republican party nomination.