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Academic Journal of Environment & Earth Science, 2025, 7(3); doi: 10.25236/AJEE.2025.070303.

Multidimensional Effects of Urban Expansion Patterns: An Empirical Study on Spatial Heterogeneity, Population Dynamics, and Economy-space Synergy in Texas

Author(s)

Yangguang Song, Huakai Ye

Corresponding Author:
Huakai Ye
Affiliation(s)

Institute for Urban and Sustainable Development, City University of Macau, Macau, China

Abstract

This study analyzes 254 Texan cities to explore how urban expansion patterns (enclave, infill, and sprawl) correlate with population change (ΔPop), economic growth (ΔGDP), and green space dynamics (ΔGreen). Results show: (1) Infill development positively correlates with GDP growth (r = 0.29, p < 0.001), indicating compact development enhances economic performance; (2) Urban sprawl negatively associates with green space preservation (ρ = -0.69, p < 0.001), suggesting low-density expansion worsens ecological fragmentation; (3) Both enclave and sprawl patterns hinder population agglomeration (β = -4.23×10⁵, -6.10×10⁵, p < 0.001), implying disordered expansion may cause residential dispersion. The findings offer quantitative insights for balancing spatial efficiency, economic vitality, and ecological sustainability in urban planning.

Keywords

Urban Expansion Patterns; Spatial Heterogeneity; Economy-Space Synergy; Compact City; Ecological Resilience; Sustainable Development

Cite This Paper

Yangguang Song, Huakai Ye. Multidimensional Effects of Urban Expansion Patterns: An Empirical Study on Spatial Heterogeneity, Population Dynamics, and Economy-space Synergy in Texas. Academic Journal of Environment & Earth Science (2025), Vol. 7, Issue 3: 22-29. https://doi.org/10.25236/AJEE.2025.070303.

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