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Canada’s newest funicular makes Edmonton’s largest green space more accessible

Sports and Recreational Facilities

Canada’s newest funicular makes Edmonton’s largest green space more accessible

The incline elevator is located in downtown Edmonton and was publicly funded.


By David Malone, Associate Editor | December 18, 2017
The new Edmonton Funicular

Photo: Brock Kryton

The 100 Street Funicular and Frederick G. Todd Lookout, the newest funicular in Canada, opened in downtown Edmonton in early December. The $24 million cable-mechanized incline elevator can transport mobility aids, bikes, and strollers to make Edmonton’s river valley more accessible.

A staircase runs parallel to the funicular. The staircase features built-in concrete block seating and a special path for runners. The staircase features about 170 steps made out of Kebony wood, an eco-friendly wood known for its durability – it lasts six times longer than pressure-treated wood. The staircase and incline elevator both lead to a connected promenade and raised lookout.

 

The Kebony wood stairs and concrete seats running parallel to the funicular Photo: Brock Kryton.

 

The funicular descends to the promenade and lookout point that provides unobstructed views of the river valley. From there, stairs or an elevator can be used to descend the rest of the way.

Dialog, the architectural firm behind the project, says the design was heavily influenced by the existing connective infrastructure of Edmonton’s river valley system. The Kebony wood stairs visually connect to the Kebony wood used on the boardwalk and architectural cladding.

 

Stairs and elevator leading down from the lookout pointPhoto: Brock Kryton.

 

Braille on the funicular and elevator buttons, extra lighting, and security are all included to enhance accessibility.

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