Risk and Opportunity Analysis of Toll Road Development on the Economic Balance of Labuhanbatu Utara Regency

Abstract

The construction of the toll road in Labuhanbatu Utara Regency presents opportunities for accelerated economic growth but also poses the potential risk of regional inequality. This study aims to analyze the impact of toll road development on regional economic growth, identify areas that are likely to experience acceleration or lag behind, explore the factors influencing these disparities, and formulate policy strategies to achieve economic balance. The research employs a qualitative approach with a case study method. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with key stakeholders, focus group discussions (FGD), field observations, and analysis of official documents. Data analysis was conducted using coding, thematic analysis, and triangulation to ensure the validity and credibility of the findings. The results indicate that areas located near the toll road corridor experience accelerated economic growth through increased trade activity, investment, and the development of local business sectors. Conversely, areas farther from the toll road are at risk of lagging behind due to limited market access, inadequate infrastructure, and low human resource capacity. The factors influencing these differential impacts include proximity to the toll road, infrastructure readiness, local economic structure, human resource capacity, and local government policies. To balance the benefits of toll road development, several strategies are recommended, including the development of supporting infrastructure, strengthening local economic capacity, targeted investment incentives, inclusive spatial planning, and multi-stakeholder collaboration among government, private sector, and community actors. This research contributes to the formulation of equitable infrastructure development planning and serves as a foundation for inclusive and sustainable local economic policies in Labuhanbatu Utara Regency.