The Topological Evolution of Road Networks

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Volume Title

Title

The Topological Evolution of Road Networks

Published Date

2009

Publisher

Elsevier

Type

Article

Abstract

This study explores the topological evolution of surface transportation networks, using empirical evidence and a simulation model validated on that data. Evolution is an iterative process of interaction, investment, and disinvestment. The temporal change of topological attributes for the network is also evaluated using measures of connectivity, density, heterogeneity, and connection patterns. The simulation model is validated using historical data from the Indiana interurban network. Statistical analyses suggest that the simulation model performs well in predicting the sequence of link abandonment in the interurban network as well as the temporal change of topological attributes. The simulation model is then applied on different idealized network structures. Typical connection patterns such as rings, webs, hub-and-spokes, and cul-de-sac emerge in the networks; the spontaneous organization of network hierarchies, the temporal change of spacing between parallel links, and the rise-and-fall of places in terms of their relative importance are also observed, providing evidence for the claim that network topology is an emergent property of network dynamics.

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Series/Report Number

Nexus Papers;200901

Funding information

National Science Foundation

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Doi identifier

http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.compenvurbsys.2008.09.009

Previously Published Citation

Xie, Feng and David Levinson (2009) The Topological Evolution of Road Networks. Computers, Environment, and Urban Systems 33(3) 211-223

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Suggested citation

Xie, Feng; Levinson, David M. (2009). The Topological Evolution of Road Networks. Retrieved from the University Digital Conservancy, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.compenvurbsys.2008.09.009.

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