superregional

Superregional is an adjective used to describe something that extends beyond a single region, typically covering multiple neighboring regions or a broad metropolitan corridor. In planning, governance, and economic development, it denotes scale and collaboration that cross administrative boundaries to address shared objectives.

In planning and regional science, the term refers to cross-boundary coordination of infrastructure, housing, labor markets, environmental management, and public services. Superregional efforts aim to align transportation networks, energy and digital infrastructure, and economic development across municipalities, provinces, or states. They often operate through formal intergovernmental agreements, regional development agencies, and public–private partnerships, though informal networks can also play a role.

Examples of its usage vary by field. In Europe, superregional cooperation initiatives may pool resources and governance across adjacent regions to improve cross-border transport, energy corridors, and metropolitan functioning. In sports, particularly NCAA baseball, a Super Regional is a round where regional winners compete in a best-of-three series to advance to the College World Series. In urban economics and geography, large metropolitan areas that span multiple jurisdictions can be described as superregional when their integrated functions—labor markets, housing, and commerce—exceed the boundaries of a single region.

Critics note that the term is applied inconsistently, with varying definitions and governance structures across countries and programs. This can complicate planning, accountability, and funding, as the scope and authority of “superregional” bodies differ widely.

See also: regional planning, metropolitan area, cross-border cooperation, functional urban area.