Multi-layer regional railway network and equitable economic development of megaregions

Cities of different sizes and functions in megaregions have shown strong interest in more efficient and intimate transportation connections. Multi-layer regional railway networks (MRRN) make the connections possible and contribute to regional economic development by improving intercity accessibility. However, how cities’ economies in megaregions would benefit from MRRNs over time is largely unknown. By analyzing MRRNs using complex network indicators and estimating a spatial dynamic Durbin model, we reveal how MRRNs reshape megaregions, promoting long-term equitable economic sustainability, through a two-stage process. Findings show that the corridor high-speed railway network (CHSRN) and the intercity high-speed railway network (IHSRN) complement each other in promoting coordinated development of the regional economies in different stages of urbanization. Although the MRRN integration extent among neighboring cities leads to competition at a local scale, better integration into MRRN helps non-adjacent cities develop economic cooperation. Small and medium-sized cities can benefit by gaining more flow of people, capital, and technologies when they are connected to MRRN.