Abstract Manager

Achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in transportation is essential for a sustainable future. Urban centers face mounting pressure to adapt transportation systems to address climate change while meeting the evolving needs of their residents. This session will showcase how a long-standing neighbourhood renewal program in Western Canada has become a cornerstone for achieving climate resilience and decarbonization goals through the modernization of transportation infrastructure.

Since 2009, Al-Terra has contributed to the evolution of Edmonton’s neighbourhood renewal program, witnessing its transformation in response to environmental, societal, and political challenges. Recently, climate change adaptation and resilience have emerged as key priorities, driving the city to pursue strategies that reduce reliance on carbon-intensive mobility options. The renewal program now emphasizes creating highly livable neighbourhoods supported by sustainable, multi-modal transportation networks.

One of the program’s central initiatives is the integration of traffic calming measures and urban design principles that encourage active transportation. This approach not only aligns with modern infrastructure standards but also enhances safety, accessibility, and livability. Edmonton’s broader goal of transitioning to low-carbon mobility systems relies on public transit and active transportation as critical components. However, rapid implementation of active transportation infrastructure is fraught with risks, including potential inefficiencies, re-work, or diminished credibility of sustainable mobility alternatives due to gaps in knowledge and experience.

To address these challenges, Al-Terra’s team conducted extensive urban design research and immersive learning, studying successful urban contexts worldwide that have achieved significant shifts toward active transportation. By combining these insights with our deep expertise in neighbourhood renewal, we developed a robust methodology to assess local contexts, design effective interventions, and implement solutions that align with community needs and climate goals.

This presentation will outline our urban design analysis methodology and its application in transforming neighbourhoods. We will revisit key projects, illustrating how global best practices inspired our designs, and discuss lessons learned during implementation. Examples will include design adaptations that successfully encouraged mode shifts, improved community engagement, and minimized environmental impact.

Attendees will gain practical insights into leveraging neighbourhood renewal programs as platforms for rapid decarbonization and enhancing urban livability. We will provide actionable takeaways for municipalities looking to achieve ambitious net-zero goals while fostering sustainable and inclusive communities.