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Spatial Inequality and Differentiation Mechanisms of Public Service Facilities in China: Evidence From Chengdu

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Transactions in GIS

Published online on

Abstract

["Transactions in GIS, Volume 30, Issue 5, August 2026. ", "\nABSTRACT\nPublic service facilities (PSF) are fundamental indicators of urban livability and sustainable development. Their spatial configuration critically influences operational efficiency and residents' quality of life. Nevertheless, achieving an optimal distribution and elevated service level within limited urban space remains a pressing challenge. In this study, we leverage point of interest data (2017–2022) across 374 townships in Chengdu to evaluate PSF performance through a tripartite framework. We analyze six essential service categories: healthcare (HF), education (EF), transportation (TF), commercial services (CSF), parks and recreation (PRF), and food services (FSF) to uncover spatiotemporal dynamics, spatial differentiation, and clustering behavior. Our findings reveal substantial overall improvement in PSF provision over the study period, though significant spatial inequities persist. A pronounced “core‐periphery” gradient was identified, with central townships exhibiting PSF 3.5 times higher than those in peripheral regions. Central areas consistently led in adequacy, while equity improvements were observed across all facility types. TF was the most equitable, followed by EF and PRF. Convenience remained moderate across most townships, with persistently low scores in mountainous zones such as Longmen and Longquan. The evolutionary trajectory of PSF clustering manifested four distinct phases: fragmentation, polarization, diffusion, and maturation. Based on these patterns, we propose spatially targeted planning strategies to enhance service distribution and reinforce urban–rural linkages. This study provides an empirical basis for evaluating Chengdu's PSF policies and introduces a multidimensional framework for microscale spatial analysis, thereby offering valuable support for the promotion of public service equity in Chengdu and other megacities.\n"]