Roads networks investments as driver of regional development
摘要
This paper investigates the mutual relationship between investment in road networks and the indicators of regional development across interconnected Egyptian governorates. In recent years, the state has allocated substantial investments to the transport sector, notably through the development of the Suez Canal and the road networks linking it to other cities. These initiatives aim to create a coherent and integrated transportation system that enhances freight logistics and fosters social connectivity among residents along the road networks. Developing an appraisal model to measure the correlation between road infrastructure and regional development is critical for aligning planning strategies with national objectives. This enhances the efficacy of development initiatives and provides researchers and authorities with effective evaluation methods for project assessments. The study synthesizes previous research and accessible statistics on the evaluation of similar projects, acknowledging that transportation initiatives have a direct impact on users and broader implications for urban and regional development. To achieve this objective, the study examines 34 highways that connect Egyptian governorates, serving as case studies of infrastructure developed or constructed within the past decade as part of the national road project. Using SPSS to analyze how road features correlate with regional development indicators, a principal component analysis is applied. The findings indicate that the effectiveness of roads in enhancing development plans is contingent upon additional factors, such as attracting investment and facilitating internal migration, which are essential for leveraging regional resources. The study emphasizes that the mere existence of roads does not guarantee urban growth or regional advancement; therefore, ongoing evaluations are necessary to assess the impact of road development and address potential deficiencies.