Learn about innovative, ambitious projects and unique programs that the City of Edmonton has implemented during one of our exciting study tours! Discover how it has tackled its municipal challenges and embraced new opportunities for success.
Due to capacity limits, delegates can only choose one (1) study tour when registering. You may sign up for additional tours in person at the conference if space permits.
It is strongly recommended to wear closed-toe shoes. All tours will meet at the Hall D Foyer at the Edmonton Convention Centre unless otherwise specified. Tours will run rain or shine unless otherwise noted, so please dress for the weather.
Please note: Schedules are subject to change.
Thursday, June 4
- Investments in Old Strathcona and Garneau neighbourhoods
Thursday, June 4, 8:45 to 11 a.m.
Co-hosted with Councillor Janz, visit the Old Strathcona and Garneau neighbourhoods and see the successful improvement made through city-administered grants and investments. Attendees will see firsthand how public commitment fosters private investment, highlighting successful initiatives to enhance the area’s economic and community appeal.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 25
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it may include travelling across the city using e-scooters.
- Metro main streets
Thursday, June 4, 8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Like good neighbours on the same street, great things happen when cities connect. Join us for a guided tour through the vibrant main streets of St. Albert and Stony Plain. Discover how local leaders and community builders are shaping strong identities, supporting business growth and transforming their downtowns into thriving, welcoming spaces.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 40
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Supporting progressive urban planning and development
Thursday, June 4, 8:45 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Learn how city investments spur development in priority areas, developing walkable communities with diverse housing and integrated mobility. Attendees will see how progressive planning is used to collaborate with the development industry on innovative housing forms and greenfield expansion.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Visit the Indigenous Peoples Experience at Fort Edmonton Park
Thursday, June 4, 8:45 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Co-hosted by Councillor Paquette, engage directly with the City’s commitment to Reconciliation by exploring this powerful, community-driven exhibit. This tour of the Indigenous Peoples Experience at Fort Edmonton Park provides an in-depth look at how the exhibit was collaboratively created to preserve local Indigenous heritage and history. This is an essential visit for municipal leaders seeking models for working with Indigenous communities to preserve and present history.- Theme: Understanding Our Roots
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- The library as a catalyst: Experiencing local impact and innovation at the revitalized Stanley A. Milner Library
Thursday, June 4, 9:15 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Visit Edmonton Public Library’s revitalized Stanley A. Milner branch located in the heart of Edmonton’s downtown. Attendees will have the chance to interact with The Wall, a two story, 40-feet-wide digital installation; visit PÎYÊSÎW WÂSKÂHIKAN (Thunderbird House), a dedicated Indigenous space for ceremony and gatherings; explore The Makerspace, a hub for all things making and creating; and taste some culinary creations in The Kitchen, a 2,100-square-feet state-of-the art teaching kitchen.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 2.5 hours
- The River Crossing Plan with Destination Canada
Thursday, June 4, 9:15 a.m. to 11 a.m.
The River Crossing plan focuses on the adaptive reuse of the historical Rossdale Power Plant and the creation of a vibrant community that celebrates the deep historic and cultural connections of this area. This walking tour will showcase the collaborative work with Destination Canada on the development lands, the Touch the Water Promenade and the River Crossing Park. This incredible municipal vision successfully balances urbanity, transportation, heritage, and environmental stewardship.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 15
- Length of the tour: 1.5 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it requires significant travel over potentially uneven surfaces and navigating stairs within a historic and active redevelopment site.
- University of Alberta - Centre for Hydrogen Innovation, Workforce Development and Outreach (CHIWDO) - Amit Kumar Lab
Thursday, June 4, 9:15 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
The newly launched Centre for Hydrogen Innovation, Workforce Development and Outreach (CHIWDO), brings together Alberta’s expertise—from researchers, government, Indigenous and industrial partners—to advance technologies and train future leaders in hydrogen. With abundant reserves of natural gas, Alberta is already Canada’s largest producer of hydrogen, a zero-emission fuel that produces only water when burned or used in a fuel cell.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 9:15 a.m.
- Capacity: 12
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- The Making of a Nation: Building the Otipemisiwak Métis Government in the 21st century
Thursday, June 4, 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Step inside a living story of nationhood, balancing a 100-year legacy with the realities of modern self-governance. This classroom session offers an unprecedented look at how the Otipemisiwak Métis Government is building its future. Discover the complex process of drafting a constitution, uniting citizens and honouring cultural identity while working within contemporary systems—providing municipal leaders with rare insight into the path toward Métis self-determination and nation building.- Theme: Understanding Our Roots
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 100
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Note: This is a classroom-based study tour located at the Edmonton Convention Centre. Room information will be shared prior to the Annual Conference.
- Introduction to machine learning exploration
Thursday, June 4, 9:45 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Discover the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence with Amii, one of Canada’s three national AI institutes. This session demystifies machine learning, moving beyond the hype to explore real-world business use cases and the principles of responsible AI. Attendees will explore what AI can realistically achieve and the implications of generative AI for modern governance. Please note this session requires no prior background in math or coding.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 10 a.m.
- Capacity: 40
- Length of the tour: 1.5 hours
- Capital Power: Genesee tour
Thursday, June 4, 11:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Join us for a tour of Canada’s most efficient natural gas combined cycle facility, located just west of Edmonton. Experience Capital Power’s flagship facility, one of Alberta’s largest power generation sites in action and discover the state-of-the-art technology that delivers 1,857 MW of energy to Alberta’s grid. This includes an up close look at the recent $1.6 billion transformation that repowered Genesee from coal to 100% natural gas-fuelled generation, five years ahead of the Alberta government mandate.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 11:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 4 hours
- Note: While on site, all visitors are required to wear long pants (ankles covered), closed-toe shoes and an appropriate top (shoulders covered). Additional personal protective equipment (PPE) will be provided and is required to be worn by all guests as directed.
- Regional connectivity and economic growth at Canada’s airports
Thursday, June 4, 11:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Learn how Canada’s airports are shaping the future and how these innovations can be replicated in your own communities. On this comprehensive tour, attendees will experience exceptional training facilities, explore Canada’s first airport hydrogen refuelling station and fleets, and visit the country’s first commercial drone delivery site. The tour culminates with an inside look at YEG’s new International Cargo Hub—a project of national significance supported by $100 million in National Trade Corridor Funds—will transform western Canada’s logistics, improve access to northern Canada and open new export pathways to Asia.
With cutting-edge innovation and practical lessons that matter to every municipality in Canada with an airport, attendees will gain national perspectives, regional success stories and actionable ideas to bring home to their communities.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 11:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 40
- Length of the tour: 4 hours
- Inglewood infill walking tour
Thursday, June 4, 12:15 to 3:30 p.m.
Walk through Inglewood, one of Edmonton’s core neighbourhoods, which provides prime examples of various forms of infill development, to see how progressive policy creates housing diversity and opportunity. This tour highlights Edmonton’s strategy of aligning city growth plans with zoning reform to meet its 50% infill target. The tour will showcase how the neighbourhood is transitioning from largely World War II single detached bungalow housing stock to one where a variety of housing forms and densities exist on the same street. These new forms of housing allow new residents to move in while maintaining the vibrancy of the neighbourhood.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 12:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Spruce Grove - Building community through urban infrastructure
Thursday, June 4, 12:15 to 4 p.m.
Explore how the city of Spruce Grove makes strategic use of infrastructure investment to create a resilient, connected community. This tour showcases a powerful model of integrated planning and collaboration. Visit Heavy Metal Place, a 125,000 sq. ft. multi-purpose facility that blends arenas, culture and transit; plus Central Park, revitalized as a key community hub of activity receiving national attention for its skate park and city centre. This tour demonstrates how aligned capital projects and public art can transform growing cities into vibrant spaces of community life and connection.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 12:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 40
- Length of the tour: 3.5 hours
- Supportive housing site tour
Thursday, June 4, 12:15 to 3:30 p.m.
Examine Edmonton’s multi-sector approach to providing critical supportive housing for individuals experiencing homelessness. Attendees will visit two city-supported sites: a purpose-built facility funded through the Rapid Housing Initiative and a non-profit/hospital collaboration, the Bridge Healing Program. Learn how the city uses land and construction grants to enable non-profit partners to create high-impact housing solutions and facilitate the transition of homeless individuals directly from hospital care.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 12:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- A walking tour of Edmonton’s downtown revitalization
Thursday, June 4, 12:45 to 4 p.m.
Discover Edmonton’s strategic commitment to revitalizing its downtown core, showcasing how the Downtown Action Plan drives investment and growth. This tour highlights how public funding, reimagines surface parking lots into vibrant green public spaces and residential development sites. Attendees will visit cultural and entertainment hubs, that attract residential redevelopment and demonstrate effective municipal strategy that leverages new tax growth to finance revitalization.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Discover the heart of community living with Dream
Thursday, June 4, 12:45 to 3:30 p.m.
Dream is proud to be one of Canada’s leading real estate companies, with over $28 billion in assets under management across North America and Europe. For more than three decades, Dream has been dedicated to building vibrant, family-friendly communities in northern Alberta—places where thoughtful design meets natural beauty.
We invite you to experience this vision firsthand with a guided tour of Meadows, one of Edmonton’s most cherished neighbourhoods. Discover the charm of local shops, community centres, parks and green spaces—and be among the first to explore Aster Grove, Dream’s newest addition to the area. Come walk with us and see for yourself what makes Dream communities so special. We’d love to show you around!- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Edmonton Learning City
Thursday, June 4, 12:45 to 4 p.m.
Learn about the City of Edmonton’s pioneering status as Canada's first UNESCO Learning City. This immersive tour showcases the city's integrated approach to lifelong learning and cross-sectoral collaboration. Visit key external partners, including the Edmonton Public Library and post-secondary institutions, to observe how robust multi-stakeholder partnerships are used to align local efforts with global sustainable development goals, providing delegates with transferable best practices.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 20
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- EPCOR - E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant & Solar Farm
Thursday, June 4, 12:45 to 4 p.m.
Join EPCOR for a tour of its E.L. Smith Water Treatment Plant and Solar Farm to see how we produce a “Glass of the Sask’: exceptional tap water that has won the Best of the West Tap Water Test. This is one of two water treatment plants that provide one-third of Alberta’s drinking water, serving Edmonton and 90 municipalities in the region. Onsite, EPCOR operates the kīsikāw pīsim solar farm, meaning daylight sun in Cree, to offset the plant’s electricity requirements and greenhouse gas emissions, with 31,000 solar panels and onsite battery storage. EPCOR works closely with the Enoch Cree Nation onsite, operating a monitoring program and an interpretive centre designed for Indigenous ceremonies.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it involves significant walking over uneven, outdoor utility terrain as well as within an active industrial facility.
Friday, June 5
- Edmonton’s sustainability tour
Friday, June 5, 9:15 to 11:30 a.m.
With Edmonton setting a benchmark for a more resilient future, ignite your passion for a greener world with this exclusive two-hour journey through Edmonton's innovative initiatives. Beginning at the magnificent Muttart Conservatory, take part in a guided deep dive that’s both educational and exhilarating, offering a front-row seat to the environmental leadership happening right here in Edmonton!
Discover how savvy city planning has revitalized Churchill Square and delivered low-carbon transport with the new Valley Line LRT. From the Muttart Conservatory’s climate-regulated pyramids, to the stunning Orchid Species Preservation Foundation collection, you’ll learn all about cutting-edge sustainable practices, including seeing rainwater harvesting in action.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 20
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Data and the city
Friday, June 5, 9:30 to 11 a.m.
Join the City’s Business Intelligence & Analytics team to explore how Edmonton is building a truly data-driven municipality. This classroom-based session will showcase diverse projects from Data Science, Data Governance, and GIS teams, highlighting how integrated data solutions enhance urban planning, service delivery, and citizen engagement. Attendees will have a unique opportunity to engage hands-on with key tools, including the City’s Open Data Portal and advanced mapping products.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 100
- Length of the tour: 1.5 hours
- Note: This is a classroom-based study tour located at the Edmonton Convention Centre. Room information will be shared prior to the Annual Conference.
- CN Alberta Operations Tour: Safety in Motion
Friday, June 5, 10:45 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Safety is at the core of everything CN does, and Alberta is home to some of our most dynamic operations. Join the CN team for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of North America’s busiest rail switching yard. Experience firsthand how CN ensures safe, efficient operations, including a visit to our state-of-the-art rail traffic control and learn firsthand how CN ensures safe, efficient operations.
We look forward to welcoming FCM delegates to our Alberta facilities, where advanced technology and a highly skilled team work together to deliver value for our customers and the communities we serve.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 11 a.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it requires significant walking across a large industrial site as well as adhering to strict operational safety protocols. The organizer will be supplying steel toe/supply boots and all other PPE (including hats, vests, and glasses). Waivers will be sent to attendees before the tour.
- Urban forest management & canopy expansion
Friday, June 5, 11:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
See how Edmonton, a leader in urban forest management, strategically protects, stewards and expands its tree canopy. This tour showcases recently planted sites funded through the 2 Billion Trees grant program and the transition of maintained spaces to naturalized systems. Learn how the city aligns its response to issues like Dutch Elm Disease and manages its natural areas, all in support of the city's ambitious goal of reaching 20% canopy cover.- Theme: Green spaces in urban places
- Departure Time: 11:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 4 hours
- Indigenous-led Healthcare Innovation: The Enoch Surgical Centre
Friday, June 5, 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Discover the future of regional service delivery at the upcoming Enoch Surgical Centre, where Indigenous-led healthcare innovation and a unique model for regional collaboration will be highlighted. Delegates will learn how this facility integrates modern medical excellence with Indigenous leadership to address critical service gaps and enhance community well-being.- Theme: Understanding Our Roots
- Departure Time: 12 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Vegreville - CPC Closure Advocacy
Friday, June 5, 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.
In 2016, the federal government announced the closure of Vegreville’s Case Processing Centre – a major local employer – resulting in the loss of 285 local jobs and a profound impact on the town. Vegreville had to redefine its economic future. What could have been a devastating blow instead became a catalyst for action.
Through advocacy and collaboration across all levels of government, Vegreville mounted a determined campaign to secure federal recognition and support economic recovery. With a focus on resilience, potential, and commitment to growth, the federal government later allocated funding toward the development of Prosperity Industrial Park—a turning point that symbolized Vegreville’s victory: reclaiming its future through persistence, unity and strategic advocacy.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 12 p.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 4 hours
- LRT construction alignment tour
Friday, June 5, 12:15 to 3:30 p.m.
Explore the real-time planning driving Edmonton’s major transit expansion projects. This guided tour offers a firsthand look at the construction of the growing LRT network, including the Valley Line West and Capital Line South Extension. Attendees will gain practical insight into how the City manages the engineering, logistics, and day-to-day coordination required for complex, large-scale infrastructure developments.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 12:30 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it requires significant walking over active and uneven construction sites as well as adhering to strict site safety protocols.
- Stadium yards
Friday, June 5, 12:15 to 3:30 p.m.
How did Edmonton successfully unlock the residential potential of underutilized industrial land adjacent to a rapid transit station? This tour of the Stadium LRT station area showcases a transit-oriented community featuring purpose-built rental housing. Attendees will learn how municipal planning, investment and partnership strategies helped convert this site into a dense, vibrant residential hub that maximizes the value of existing mass transit infrastructure.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 12:30 p.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- The city scoop: ice cream & urban development
Friday, June 5, 12:30 to 4:30 p.m.
Co-hosted by Mayor Knack. Can you buy an ice cream and get it home before it melts? That simple question reveals a lot about walkability — and about how we build our cities. In Edmonton, some of the best ice cream shops are opening in revitalizing neighbourhoods, where density, design, and community life intersect.
Join a sweet exploration of walkability and local development, conducted on e-scooters with provided helmets, and explore Edmonton's best neighbourhoods. This tour links the simple act of buying ice cream to complex urban strategy. You will visit renowned local shops in revitalizing neighbourhoods and hear from experts about the municipal ‘ingredients’ that make a community thrive: successful infill zoning, density, effective place-making and economic vibrancy.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 40
- Length of the tour: 3.5 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it may include travelling across the city using e-scooters. A waiver will need to be signed.
- Edmonton waste management centre & eco station tour
Friday, June 5, 12:45 to 4 p.m.
Go behind the scenes at one of North America’s most integrated municipal waste management systems. Attendees will discover how Edmonton’s residential waste is transformed and why proper sorting is key to city-wide success. Learn about Eco Stations that handle household hazardous waste, electronics, and other resource recovery efforts.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 24
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations due to specific safety requirements and potential exposure to industrial equipment.
- Parkland County - Acheson Innovation in Action
Friday, June 5, 12:45 to 4 p.m.
Join Parkland County for a study tour through the Acheson Industrial Area, highlighting how local businesses are innovating in workforce development, operational excellence and technology integration.
Acheson is one of Western Canada’s fastest-growing industrial areas, home to more than 300 businesses driving innovation and job creation. This tour offers municipal leaders a firsthand look at how public-private collaboration and industry-led initiatives are shaping modern economic growth.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it requires extensive walking over large industrial sites as well as adhering to specific site safety protocols.
- River Valley tour
Friday, June 5, 12:45 to 4 p.m.
Learn about long-term planning and preservation strategies for one of North America's largest urban park systems. This walking tour of Edmonton's central river valley showcases the legacy of conservation that has defined the park network for decades. Examine complex historic and current challenges involved in managing and protecting this massive urban green space, while balancing development pressure with environmental protection and public use. Attendees will gain valuable insight into the visionary planning that sustains this crucial natural resource.- Theme: Green spaces in urban places
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 20
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Prioritizing equity in Edmonton's public spaces bylaw
Friday, June 5, 1 to 2:30 p.m.
Learn about the municipal legal and collaborative process behind the City of Edmonton’s 2025 Public Spaces Bylaw (20700), which consolidates multiple regulations addressing conduct in public spaces. This classroom session, led by the City Solicitor and enforcement teams, showcases how Edmonton balanced public safety and vibrancy with equitable use of its public spaces. Gain a firsthand overview of how this complex project was managed internally and externally, across departments and with key partners to ensure the city's public realm remains safe, welcoming and accessible to all.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 100
- Length of the tour: 1.5 hours
- Note: This is a classroom-based study tour located at the Edmonton Convention Centre. Room information will be shared prior to the Annual Conference.
Saturday, June 6
- Advancing Reconciliation and anti-racism at the city
Saturday, June 6, 9:00 to 11 a.m.
Learn about the City of Edmonton's integrated, policy-driven approach to advancing Reconciliation and anti-racism. This classroom session details the city’s Truth and Reconciliation municipal response plan and its anti-racism strategy, showcasing a long-term commitment to building inclusive, equitable services. Hear how this diverse city collaboratively works with Indigenous and ethnocultural groups to serve Canada's second-largest urban Indigenous population, using projects like the Civic Youth Fellowship as a model for civic engagement.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 100
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Note: This is a classroom-based study tour located at the Edmonton Convention Centre. Room information will be shared prior to the Annual Conference.
- The Problem Property Initiative—Exploring Edmonton’s impactful multi-agency approach
Saturday, June 6, 9:00 to 11 a.m.
Explore the city’s innovative, multi-agency strategy for tackling the most complex problem properties. This study tour begins at session room Salon 4 for a brief presentation to highlight the Problem Property Initiative (PPI), which addresses sites with recurring violations related to safety, health, and crime. Attendees will then visit specific sites to see how this impactful inter-jurisdictional approach achieves positive community outcomes and gains compliance.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 25
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Note: Tour will be meeting in Salon 4.
- Blatchford, Edmonton’s first green community
Saturday, June 6, 9:15 to 11 a.m.
Visit this FCM award-winning initiative, where Edmonton is leading the way as a land developer in creating a carbon-neutral community from the ground up. Attendees will tour Blatchford’s first energy centre that houses the innovative as well as the City-run District Energy Sharing System. Learn how custom-building standards and low-impact design are reducing the ecological footprint, strategically prioritizing density and creating a central, urban community that will be powered by 100% renewable energy.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 25
- Length of the tour: 1.5 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it requires extensive walking over a large active development site.
- Edmonton Unlimited: Experience Edmonton’s innovation advantage
Saturday, June 6, 9:15 to 11:30 a.m.
Join Edmonton Unlimited, the City of Edmonton’s innovation agency, for an engaging session focused on the city’s tech and innovation ecosystem. Since 2023, Edmonton Unlimited is a hub where entrepreneurs, founders, risk capital and industry leaders connect to turn big ideas into bold solutions, all powered by partnerships with Edmonton’s world-class post-secondary institutions.
Opening with a dynamic panel featuring local founders driving advances in artificial intelligence and life sciences, participants will take part in smaller roundtable discussions to spark candid conversations about shared challenges, opportunities, and the future of innovation in Alberta’s capital, and learn how this agency is shaping the future of innovation in Edmonton.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Windermere’s net zero fire station tour
Saturday, June 6, 9:15 to 11:30 a.m.
Co-hosted by Councillor Elliott, visit Edmonton’s first net-zero fire station, a groundbreaking model for municipal green infrastructure. This tour highlights the facility’s innovative design and sustainability features, providing key insights into the lessons learned across all phases of this project. Attendees will hear about the unique opportunities and challenges of designing, building, and operating a net-zero building. This is a must see for those focused on integrating energy-efficient and sustainable practices into critical public facilities.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 9:30 a.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Note: While this facility is highly modern, the nature of touring an active emergency services site may pose challenges for delegates with significant mobility concerns. Attendees can only wear closed toe shoes; high heels are not allowed.
- Arts District
Saturday, June 6, 11:45 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Join us for an immersive tour of Edmonton’s vibrant Arts District, exploring urban identity, economic growth, and community engagement.
Visit several iconic institutions—including the Art Gallery of Alberta, the Winspear Centre and the Citadel Theatre—to discover the role these anchors play in fostering innovation and community pride.
In partnership with the Edmonton Arts Council, the experience will highlight how public art initiatives are used for place-making, city enhancement and creating accessible urban spaces. The tour offers a unique opportunity to see operational and artistic spaces in these facilities, while discussing strategies for sustaining creativity, maintaining urban artwork and designing vibrant cultural spaces in a winter city.- Theme: Experience Edmonton
- Departure Time: 12 p.m.
- Capacity: 25
- Length of the tour: 3.5 hours
- Claystone waste landfill and compost tour
Saturday, June 6, 11:45 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Explore one of Canada’s largest integrated solid waste centres, servicing a regional population of 1.5 million. This tour of the Ryley facility showcases an efficient operation handling thousands of tonnes of material daily, including an advanced organics composting site and a network of transfer stations. Attendees will get an exclusive look at large-scale resource recovery in action.- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 12 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Note: This tour is not suitable for participants with mobility limitations as it potentially involves walking over uneven, outdoor terrain and within an active industrial facility.
- Community Resilience by Design: An ALUS landscape tour
Saturday, June 6, 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.
How are agricultural producers using their land, expertise and ingenuity to deliver vital ecosystem services? On this tour, you’ll visit a selection of demonstration sites across the county, where local farmers and ranchers are leading the way with innovative, community-driven solutions.
From cleaner water and healthier soils to thriving wildlife habitat and flood & drought resilience, visit our demonstration sites and see firsthand how farmers and ranchers are helping to build a more sustainable landscape.
ALUS partners with producers to unlock the potential of marginal or under-productive lands, transforming them into powerful assets that benefit both the environment and society.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 12 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 4 hours
- Note: Sturdy walking shoes and sunscreen are recommended.
- Partnerships that Power Progress: Municipal Collaboration and Clean Innovation
Saturday, June 6, 11:45 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The true story of Canada’s decarbonization starts here—in Alberta’s industrial heartland. This guided windshield tour will showcase over 20 petrochemical facilities representing more than $50 billion in investment. Participants will learn the history, scale, and innovation driving Canada’s largest industrial cluster, gaining insight into the region’s unique blend of technology, sustainability, and municipal collaboration. Along the route, delegates will see firsthand how five municipalities came together to attract world-class projects, reduce emissions and position Alberta as a leader in clean industrial growth—with stops highlighting some of the heartland’s most innovative operations.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 4 hours
- The kihcihkaw askî site tour
Saturday, June 6, 12:15 to 3:30 p.m.
Explore kihcihkaw askî (“This place here is Sacred” in Cree), a landmark municipal commitment to relationship building and reconciliation. This site in Whitemud Park is dedicated solely to Indigenous ceremonies, providing a natural setting for spiritual ceremonies, cultural camps, and intergenerational learning. Attendees will learn how the City addressed the historical need for an urban space dedicated to traditional practices, creating an essential place for ceremony, healing, and building bridges between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples.- Theme: Climate Commitment in Action
- Departure Time: 12:30 p.m.
- Capacity: 40
- Length of the tour: 3 hours
- Hawrelak Park renewal project
Saturday, June 6, 12:45 to 3 p.m.
Originally established in 1967, William Hawrelak Park’s renewal serves as a model for enhancing visitor experiences through strategic infrastructure investment. Attendees will examine how the city successfully modernized one of its most popular destinations for long-term community benefit. This includes delving into the complex project’s processes and key learnings, as well as looking at the park infrastructure upgrades, historical designations and enhanced event support capacity.- Theme: Green spaces in urban places
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 25
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Village at Griesbach: Canada Lands Company’s complete community
Saturday, June 6, 12:45 to 3 p.m.
Discover the Village at Griesbach, a master-planned community located on the site of a former Canadian Forces Base in north-central Edmonton. This award-winning community is noted for its family-friendly and pedestrian-oriented design, with housing for every stage of life and incomes. The community maintains its character through architectural guidelines and commemorates Canadian military history as well as the natural landscapes distinctive to Edmonton. The neighbourhood emphasizes sustainability and livability, featuring four lakes, mature trees, a 24-acre central park, public school, numerous walking trails and Edmonton’s largest community garden.
The northeast corner of Griesbach will include a range of housing types, retail and commercial spaces and a school. Ultimately, the Village at Griesbach will feature more than 7,600 homes (market and affordable).- Theme: Innovating and Addressing Complex Challenges
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 30
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
Sunday, June 7
- Community safety tour: Edmonton’s multi-agency approach
Sunday, June 7, 8:45 to 11 a.m.
This tour highlights the Neighbourhood Empowerment Team (NET), a partnership between the City, Police Service and The Family Centre. Attendees will visit key downtown locations to see how NET applies Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) principles in real time to decrease crime, increase safety perceptions and contribute to a more vibrant city, aligning with the City Plan.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 20
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Kathleen Andrews Garage tour
Sunday, June 7, 8:45 to 11 a.m.
Tour one of North America’s leading transit operations and maintenance facilities, recognized for its state-of-the-art design and environmental features. This informative study tour will highlight solar and water collection systems, and provide an opportunity to learn more about Kathleen Andrews, the first woman to work as a transit operator at Edmonton Transit Service.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 9 a.m.
- Capacity: 35
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Bringing Vision Zero to life
Sunday, June 7, 12:45 to 3 p.m.
Co-hosted by Councillor Wrigh, join Edmonton’s Safe Mobility Team for a tour of innovative, evidence-based Vision Zero initiatives. Attendees will explore locations featuring both permanent and adaptable safety measures, showcasing the City’s data-driven approach to traffic safety. Learn how engineering expertise and public collaboration are used to understand lived experiences, ensuring initiatives are effective and equitable.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 25
- Length of the tour: 2 hours
- Explore the Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre
Sunday, June 7, 12:45 to 3 p.m.
Co-hosted with Councillor Clarke, come visit the Coronation Park Sports and Recreation Centre, a transformative community hub that seamlessly blends everyday recreation. As an integrated facility with the Peter Hemingway Aquatic Centre, this complex features a diverse range of amenities, including a fitness centre, bouldering wall, and multi-purpose courts. Most notably, the tour showcases Western Canada’s only Union Cycliste Internationale Category A indoor cycling track and North America’s first indoor triathlon centre.- Theme: Meeting the Needs of Edmontonians
- Departure Time: 1 p.m.
- Capacity: 20
- Length of the tour: 2 hours