Regional Borders, Commuting, and Transport Network Integration
利用法国省级边界的空间准实验变化，发现区域边界因地方交通网络不整合（过境多走4.5公里）而扰乱通勤流、集水区和居住密度；模拟显示整合网络可使实际人均居住收入平均增长6.36%。
Abstract This paper exploits spatial quasiexperimental variation around French departmental borders to provide novel evidence that regional borders disturb surrounding economic activity; namely, commuting flows, catchment areas, and residential density. The lack of integration of local transport networks at regional borders—leading to a 4.5 km travel distance penalty when crossing borders—explains the observed border effects. Using a spatial quantifiable equilibrium framework and accounting for construction costs, a policy simulation exercise shows that integrating local transport networks leads to a 6.36% average growth in real per capita residential income.