Waiting for the train: Territorial productivity and the high-speed rail project in Mexico

Abstract

In this article, an spatial interaction accessibility index was used to assess the effects on territorial cohesion by adding a high-speed rail service to existing means of transport. The route from Guadalajara to the Port of Veracruz was studied, passing through Mexico City and other important cities. The increase in territorial cohesion between regions was evaluated based on the increase in productivity that each pair of cities would have where the high-speed passenger train would be included. Territorial cohesion was estimated by evaluating the passenger demand that the high-speed train would have, the territorial accessibility index and using an aggregate production function. Evidence was found that the high-speed train would be associated with higher regional economic exchange rates and consequently with a higher level of productivity.