How will the combining of the elevation of rail lines with urban redevelopment reduce the north–south (east–west) disparity in the city? A case study of Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe conurbation, Japan

Abstract

Railroads are generally the primary public transportation system connecting the region. However, when a railway crosses a city, it divides it into north-south (east-west), creating the front and rear sides of the city. In Japan, grade separation projects elevate the existing railway lines. The primary purpose is to relieve traffic congestion caused by railroad crossings. However, integrating the north–south axis has also been highlighted. In addition, creating a new centrality to station spheres in mature cities will be an essential guideline for the future formation of an urban structure centered on station spheres by transit-oriented development. This study focused on 12 cases in which an elevated railway line in the Kyoto-Osaka-Kobe conurbation of Japan was combined with an urban redevelopment project. We investigated changes in land use and land prices in the surrounding area. The study results confirmed that the disparity between the front and rear sides tended to shrink. In addition, based on the station's characteristics and area to be redeveloped, a policy for more effective integrated redevelopment and elevation projects was identified. The findings of this study will assist in reorganizing cities into a more sustainable urban structure by eliminating urban fragmentation centered on railway stations.