A review of input–output models on multisectoral modelling of transportation–economic linkages

Understanding the role of transportation in urban and regional economy is a persistent analytical topic within the transportation research community. Multi-sectoral input–output (IO) modelling, as a standard economic analysis tool, has great advantages in reflecting industrial interdependencies in an economy. The simplicity of IO and the well-known concept of multiplier effect also make it broadly used in both academia and practice. This paper provides an introduction of IO models and reviews the past IO studies from 2000 onward on modelling transportation–economic linkages. The following types of models are included: single-region, multi-region and random utility-based multi-region IO models, with central methodological features described. An evaluation of modelling issues brought to light by reviewing the literature is then presented. For future research, more critical attention should be directed towards IO’s modelling assumptions, spatial linkages and the static representation of the economy. In addition, there are needs for more attention in the following areas: sectoral aggregation, specification of household sector and the integration with transportation forecasting models. The paper concludes with brief recommendations on future IO applications.