High Speed Rail as a tool for regional development

High Speed Rail (HSR) has become worldwide one of the most prominent transport modes in recent years. Several countries in Europe, America and in Asia are extending their networks and pushing these developments through the planning and construction of new lines. Apart from connections between two metropolitan areas the intervening regions must also be taken into consideration in more detail. Here, small or medium sized cities will benefit in a social or economic way from HSR and obtain HSR connections as a location advantage in comparison to cities or regions without such a link.