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Multimodal Transport Networks

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Listed:
  • Simon Fuchs
  • Woan Foong Wong

Abstract

We examine the economic and environmental impacts of improvements and disruptions in multimodal transport networks. Our quantitative spatial equilibrium model incorporates routing over multiple modes and congestion at intermodal terminals. We estimate a modal substitution elasticity with highway and rail data, and a terminal congestion elasticity with vessel-positioning data. Calibrated to the U.S. freight network, our model identifies key bottlenecks and quantifies $300-700 million in additional real GDP gains from intermodal terminal improvements. These gains are 2.5 times higher without congestion, and substitution away from roads yield additional environmental benefits. Losing rail network access, factoring in modal substitution and general equilibrium effects, is estimated to reduce real GDP by $230 billion.

Suggested Citation

  • Simon Fuchs & Woan Foong Wong, 2024. "Multimodal Transport Networks," CESifo Working Paper Series 11362, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_11362
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Chowdhry, Sonali & Heiland, Inga & Mahlkow, Hendrik, 2026. "Quantitative trade with ships," Kiel Working Papers 2314, Kiel Institute for the World Economy.
    2. Christopher Severen, 2026. "Evaluating Transportation Improvements Within Cities Using Quantitative Spatial Models," Working Papers 26-13, Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia.
    3. Adachi, Daisuke, 2026. "Rails, Risks, and Resilience: A Dynamic Spatial Equilibrium Analysis with Natural Disaster Risks," SocArXiv qj9ka_v1, Center for Open Science.
    4. Evangelos D. Spyrou & Vassilios Kappatos & Maria Gkemou & Evangelos Bekiaris, 2025. "Multimodal Transport Optimization from Doorstep to Airport Using Mixed-Integer Linear Programming and Dynamic Programming," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 17(17), pages 1-15, September.

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • F11 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Neoclassical Models of Trade
    • R12 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - General Regional Economics - - - Size and Spatial Distributions of Regional Economic Activity; Interregional Trade (economic geography)
    • R42 - Urban, Rural, Regional, Real Estate, and Transportation Economics - - Transportation Economics - - - Government and Private Investment Analysis; Road Maintenance; Transportation Planning

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