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Impact of early-life exposure of children to expanded road infrastructure on long-term educational attainment: New evidence from China

Author

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  • Meng, Xin
  • Yu, Yanni
  • Tran, Phuong T.M.
  • Balasubramanian, Rajasekhar

Abstract

Improvements in transportation infrastructure are a key factor in promoting educational equity. This paper is the first to use nationally representative survey data from China to analyze the effect of exposure to road infrastructure expansion during early life stages on educational attainment. Our findings reveal that such expansions raise the years of schooling by 0.539 years. Women, rural residents, and individuals with less parental education or limited geographical accessibility benefit more from the positive effects of road infrastructure expansion on educational attainment. Additionally, our analysis explores the mechanisms underlying these relationships, such as improvements in parental time and monetary investments. We discuss the practical implications of our findings, emphasizing how expanding road transportation infrastructure can significantly enhance educational outcomes, especially in developing countries.

Suggested Citation

  • Meng, Xin & Yu, Yanni & Tran, Phuong T.M. & Balasubramanian, Rajasekhar, 2026. "Impact of early-life exposure of children to expanded road infrastructure on long-term educational attainment: New evidence from China," Economic Analysis and Policy, Elsevier, vol. 90(C), pages 698-712.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:ecanpo:v:90:y:2026:i:c:p:698-712
    DOI: 10.1016/j.eap.2026.01.050
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