A three-dimensional evaluation model of the externalities of highway infrastructures to capture the temporal and spatial distance to optimal—A case study of China

Various externalities caused by highway infrastructures, such as promoting economic development, traffic congestion, and air pollution, are becoming more and more important. Currently, there is no multi-dimensional quantitative evaluation of the externalities of highway infrastructures, hindering the sustainable planning and development of highway infrastructures. Therefore, this study aims to develop a three-dimensional evaluation model of the externalities of highway infrastructures. To achieve the above objective, this study: (1) developed a three-dimensional evaluation index system through a comprehensive literature review and interviews with experts; (2) weighted the evaluation indexes using the entropy weight method; (3) developed the comprehensive evaluation model using the grey correlation analysis method; (4) validated the developed model by using statistical data of Jiangsu province, China. The analysis results showed that the developed model is feasible and effective in evaluating the externalities of highway infrastructures as the analysis results are consistent with reality. In addition, the model can capture the value of externality-related information, the distance to the optimal state of the externalities of highway infrastructures, and the temporal and spatial trends of the externalities of highway infrastructures for a region. The results of this study for the first time set a basis for investigating the influential mechanism of the multi-dimensional externalities of highway infrastructures. Moreover, the results provide theoretical support for the scientific formulation of relevant policies and decision-making for the government.