Proximity to the Corridor: Geographic Accessibility and Regional Economic Performance along the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road, Indonesia

Abstract

Large-scale transport infrastructure is widely expected to promote connectivity and regional economic development, yet its benefits can differ across regions depending on geographic and economic characteristics. This study examines the relationship between accessibility to the Trans-Sumatra Toll Road (JTTS) and regional economic performance, using Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) data from 29 regencies/cities in six provinces of Sumatra (Lampung, South Sumatra, Jambi, Riau, North Sumatra, and Aceh). Quantitative descriptive analysis, Location Quotient (LQ) analysis, estimated driving-distance analysis, and Spearman rank correlation were applied to evaluate economic disparities, sectoral specialization, and the association between JTTS accessibility and GRDP. The results show considerable diversity in regional economic performance and sectoral structure along the corridor. The Spearman correlation between distance to the nearest JTTS interchange and GRDP is weak and negative (ρ = −0.189; p = 0.326), indicating that proximity alone cannot explain differences in regional economic performance. The findings suggest that the economic benefits of JTTS depend not only on spatial proximity but also on each region's internal economic structure and capacity to capitalize on improved connectivity.