Journal of South China University of Technology(Natural Science Edition) ›› 2025, Vol. 53 ›› Issue (11): 1-.doi: 10.12141/j.issn.1000-565X.240608

• Intelligent Transportation System •    

Evaluation of Multi-Dimensional Accessibility of Intercity Road Networks from the Perspective of Regional Coordinated Development

YE Yichen1  WEN Huiying1  ZHANG Lin2   

  1. 1. School of Civil Engineering and Transportation, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China;

    2. Joint International Research Laboratory of Catastrophe Simulation and Systemic Risk Governance/ School of National Safety and Emergency Management, Beijing Normal University, Zhuhai 519087, Guangdong, China

  • Online:2025-11-25 Published:2025-06-18

Abstract:

Intercity road network accessibility is a key indicator of the efficiency of regional flows of economic and social resources. However, existing studies mainly focus on macro-level connectivity, while local service and economic interaction between nodes receive less attention, limiting support for coordinated regional development. To address this issue, a multi-dimensional accessibility evaluation framework for intercity road networks is proposed. First, a node classification method is developed to balance regional development goals and data availability. It identifies the positions and functions of economic centers, transport stations, and tourist attractions within the network. Second, expressways, national highways, and provincial highways are integrated into a unified topological model. A time impedance adjustment mechanism is applied to reflect travel efficiency and cost differences, capturing the dynamic balance of path selection across road types. Based on this structure, three accessibility evaluation models are constructed from three dimensions: connectivity, service, and economy. They quantify overall network connectivity, residents' convenience in accessing stations and attractions, and the strength of economic interaction between nodes. An empirical analysis of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao intercity road network at the end of 2021 shows that the Greater Bay Area performs significantly better in multi-dimensional accessibility than Eastern, Western, and Northern Guangdong. Following principles of evidence-based design, key nodes are identified and high-standard roads are proposed. The results show substantial improvements in both regional and local accessibility. In Eastern, Western, and Northern Guangdong, 99.2% of nodes show improved connectivity, and 83.3% display enhanced economic accessibility. These results validate both the proposed evaluation framework and the optimization scheme. The study provides a systematic tool and decision-making reference for regional road network optimization and resource allocation.

Key words: multi-dimensional accessibility evaluation, regional coordinated development, global connectivity, local service, economic interaction, intercity road network