Megalopolis
Contents |
[edit] Introduction
A megalopolis (or megapolis) is a network of large cities and surrounding metropolitan areas that have become interconnected, primarily by transportation infrastructure. This results in a continuous flow of movement and commerce driven by economic development that supports the collective growth of the region.
[edit] History
The term megalopolis was first used in the United States in the 20th century. It was applied to the area from Washington to New York to Boston, also known as the Northeast megalopolis, the Northeast Corridor or BosWash. This heavily-travelled commuter region has several busy transport hubs, including a dense concentration of highways, airports, railways and ports.
In a megalopolis, each city and the surrounding metropolitan area retains its own identity, but the urban sprawl that results from the geographic proximity of each city links the different areas together. This distinguishes a megalopolis from a megacity, which is a urban agglomeration that includes people living in the immediate suburbs outside of the established border of a single city.
For more information see: Megacity.
[edit] Trends
There are more megalopolis regions developing around the world, particularly in Asia. These include examples such as China's Pearl River Delta and Indonesia's Jakarta-Bandung metro area.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
A case study and a warning to would-be developers
Creating four dwellings... after half a century of doing this job, why, oh why, is it so difficult?
Reform of the fire engineering profession
Fire Engineers Advisory Panel: Authoritative Statement, reactions and next steps.
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.