Accessibility and Economic Impact due to Toll Road on the Island of Java

This study examines the relationship between toll road development and its impact on regional accessibility and economic performance across Java Island, Indonesia. The expansion of the toll road network, particularly the Trans-Java corridor, has been central to the national infrastructure agenda, aimed at enhancing intercity connectivity, reducing travel time, and stimulating economic activities. The research aims to evaluate how improved accessibility affects economic indicators such as investment growth, job creation, regional GDP, and development disparities. A mixed-methods approach was employed. Quantitatively, the study used panel data from 2010 to 2023, covering toll road lengths, traffic volumes, and regional economic performance indicators. A spatial analysis using GIS was conducted to assess accessibility shifts before and after toll development. Qualitatively, field interviews were carried out with government planners, local businesses, and residents in regions connected by key toll segments such as Jakarta–Cikampek and Surabaya–Madiun. Findings reveal that toll road development has substantially improved access between regions, leading to increased logistics efficiency and economic activity. However, the benefits are unevenly distributed, favoring urban and industrial areas more than rural zones. The study concludes that while toll infrastructure promotes economic growth, equitable development requires integrated planning and support for less-connected regions.