News & Events
Insights

City shaping by design: DIALOG celebrates World Cities Day

October 31, 2025

Join us in celebrating World Cities Day!

World Cities Day, started by the United Nations General Assembly, raises international awareness of the diverse contexts of urban life. It supports global efforts to enhance the wellbeing of the environments and communities that cities serve – goals that are integral to our mission at DIALOG.

Learn about some of DIALOG’s projects that are contributing to city-shaping initiatives across North America:

Valley Line LRT, Edmonton, AB

Valley Line LRT:

Completed in 2023 and slated for completion of phase two in 2027, Edmonton’s Valley Line LRT advances the city’s growth and connections to places where Edmontonians live, work, and gather. The design responds to the unique needs of Edmonton’s neighbourhoods and communities, incorporating considerations like environmental preservation, neighbourhood and pedestrian-friendly design, placemaking, and passenger comfort and safety.

The River Mile Master Plan, Denver, CO

The River Mile Master Plan:

Denver’s River Mile Master Plan reconnects the city to the South Platte River by transforming aging infrastructure into a vibrant mixed-use community. Riverfront gathering spaces enhance urban connectivity and access to nature, while diverse housing options meet varied community needs and nearby LRT and transit stops ease pressure on public transportation.

ICE District, Edmonton, AB

ICE District:

Combining sports, entertainment, residential, hotel, office, and retail spaces centered around a public plaza for gathering, Edmonton’s ICE District brings people together in a dynamic environment that blends living, working, staying, and entertainment. In collaboration with design teams, DIALOG contributed to nine out of 13 major components of ICE District Phase One – most notably at Rogers Arena, home to the Edmonton Oilers.

Granville Island Redevelopment, Vancouver BC

Granville Island:

Granville Island, a 38-acre redeveloped industrial site, has become one of Canada’s most visited public spaces, offering a vibrant hub for respite and community celebration. Its transformation introduced a range of people-centered amenities, including a public market, diverse restaurants and shops, artist studios, workshops, and theatres. The island also features children’s play areas, a water park, the Granville Island Hotel, and the Granville Island Brew Pub.

Lead image: AI-assisted illustration by Sadek Ahmed, UN