Edmonton’s Funicular Recognized for National Urban Design Excellence

Edmonton’s Mechanized River Valley Access, also known as 100 Street Funicular, received a National Urban Design Award of Excellence in Civic Design from the RAIC, the Canadian Society of Landscape Architects (CSLA) and the Canadian Institute of Planners (CIP).

Render of aerial view looking east. Photo Credit: DIALOG.
Pedestrian bridge and river valley. Photo Credit: Tom Arban.

The Mechanized River Valley Access was one of 12 projects honoured, and one of only six Award of Excellence recipients. DIALOG provided architecture, landscape architecture, structural engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering services for the City of Edmonton project.

Urban Stairs and funicular landing. Photo Credit: Tom Arban

The design is recognized for its engaging connection between the bustling downtown core and the natural wonder of the North Saskatchewan River valley. It also takes an important barrier-free connection further, creating an urban space with opportunities to connect with nature, sit and relax, actively traverse the slope, and take in the view.

Elevator and trails. Photo Credit:
Cooper & O’Hara.
Promenade with public art benches. Photo Credit: Tom Arban.

“A beautifully-conceived ensemble of built structures, open spaces, and public art that successfully connects Edmonton’s downtown to the river valley. The juxtaposition of landscape attributes—in particular, its topographical and visual qualities— and the architectural details and materiality of the downtown milieu are compelling,” said National Urban Design Awards Jury.

Since opening, the Mechanized River Valley Access has received awards for architectural design, steel design, engineering, and urban design and continues to raise the reputation of Edmonton’s river valley.

You might also like
single-podcasts