Joseph Schoenborn specializes in station design that prioritizes architectural excellence and elevates the passenger experience. With a solid background in architecture and a focus on urban transit projects, Joseph contributes to the development of stations that are both functional and aesthetically engaging. His work supports the creation of user-centered transit infrastructure that enhances urban mobility and community connections.

Tell us a bit about yourself – your role and career journey.

I began my career with an international architectural firm, working with a small team dedicated to the design of a 550-meter mixed-use tower in Doha, Qatar. It was a great experience that showed me how collaboration and attention to detail can deliver iconic results.

After the project, I pursued my master’s degree in architecture at Virginia Tech and then joined a small architectural firm in Washington, D.C. where I gained experience of working on historic preservation projects, including the statue restoration at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

I joined 91Ӱ�� in 2014, where I discovered my passion for transit architecture. It’s a discipline where thoughtful design directly impacts the daily lives of thousands, improving not just function but community identity, connectivity, and even property value. Over the last decade, I’ve worked on stations and transit facilities across the United States and internationally — from Riyadh to Toronto and Mexico. Recent career highlights include working on the station design for Pittsburgh’s bus rapid transit system, and new light rail lines in Austin, Phoenix and Los Angeles.

Since late 2023, I’ve been serving as Architecture Manager for our Baltimore team, helping to grow our practice while continuing to learn from every new project we take on.

Talk to us about a transit or rail station project that has impacted or been a major highlight of your career. How is it helping to solve some of the challenges and issues our clients and communities are facing? 

One project I am particularly proud of is the Salt River Bridge in Phoenix. The light rail project extends the system that was originally built in the early 2000’s from Downtown into South Phoenix. Our transit architecture team designed eight new stations along the alignment, each featuring artist integration that highlights the different communities in unique ways.

Early into the project, our client saw an opportunity to celebrate the Salt River crossing — a historic, dry riverbed — through design. We seized this opportunity to elevate the overall experience of the transit system. The design we came up with introduced a delicate steel structure that mimics the form and cadence of the existing, more traditional bridge features. The rise and fall of sculptural form — replicated on both sides of the bridge — signifies progression and movement to one’s destination. The result not only creates a memorable experience for passengers but also serves as a gateway between two communities.

You’ve worked on station renovations across cities like New York and Baltimore. How do you approach balancing historic preservation with modern design expectations in transit architecture?

I’ve always considered myself a modernist. I think generally the modern approach is often best. By modern architecture, I mean simplicity — clean lines, minimal clutter, and the use of transparency and open space. In transit station design, every square foot matters, and the challenge is to make the most of it.

At Camden Yards in Baltimore, we designed a new commuter rail station adjacent to the iconic Warehouse. Instead of mimicking historic architecture, we used modern materials like glass and steel to create a station that feels light and open. The large canopy and extensive glazing not only protect passengers but also frame views of the historic site, allowing the new and old to complement each other.

In New York’s Astoria, we rehabilitated four century-old, elevated stations, replacing the original solid metal walls with glass windscreens to open up the views to the neighborhood and transform the stations into transparent, connected public spaces. By thoughtfully integrating modern elements, the neighborhood became part of the station experience, a living backdrop to the transit journey.

Can you share more insights into how modular construction methods can support decarbonization goals in transit projects?

I’ve had the opportunity to tour several modular and offsite fabrication facilities. What struck me most during these visits was how clean, organized and efficient the operations were. The inherent environmental benefit of this approach lies in its ability to significantly reduce construction waste while improving overall efficiency.

For transit stations, offsite construction can be used to great effect because station elements are repeatable. One example is the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system in Pittsburgh. The station shelters were prefabricated in Wisconsin, with every component prefinished and predrilled. Onsite, the installation process was like assembling a puzzle — fast, precise and clean. This minimized construction time, reduced disruption to the surrounding area, and eliminated metal waste onsite.

Use of offsite construction practices can support clients to decarbonize projects by cutting down material waste, reducing transportation-related emissions, and limiting energy use during construction. It also improves enhanced quality control and accelerates delivery, helping transit agencies meet their sustainability targets while delivering high-performance infrastructure more efficiently.

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As New York City continues to invest in transportation infrastructure and reevaluate land use policy, the conversation around transit-oriented development (TOD) has never been more relevant.  The upcoming Bronx Metro-North stations provide an insightful case study of the power and promise of integrated land use, transportation and community advocacy.

The East Bronx has long been considered a transit desert with limited direct access to Manhattan’s West Side and major job centers.  MTA’s Penn Station Access project aims to rectify this with a new commuter rail service to Penn Station for New Yorkers living and working in the East Bronx as well as direct Metro-North connection from Manhattan’s West side to the Bronx, Westchester and Connecticut. The regional rail service is estimated to arrive in 2027 with four new ADA-accessible stations at Hunts Point, Morris Park, Co-op City, and Parkchester/Van Nest. And with the new stations will come access to jobs, housing, amenities and more.

Kristopher explains some of the anticipated outcomes of the project.

The impact of four new stations

As part of Metro-North Railroad’s extension of the New Haven Line, four new stations will be created in the East Bronx. Kimberly McNabb, Deputy Director of Planning and Development, Office of the Bronx Borough President, explains how the introduction of these stations contributes to the goals for the borough.

Achieving wider goals

Coupled with the recent City of Yes initiative, which re-zoned land use around the proposed stations from commercial and manufacturing to residential, the City Council anticipates the creation of 7,000 new housing units. Michael Kavalar, Senior Team Leader, New York City Department of City Planning, shares details of the goals of NYC planning work beyond land use actions.

The benefits of TOD

Jessica Wurwarg, Director of Planning, Policy and Economic Development, Transit Oriented Development, MTA Capital Construction and Development, explains why the MTA is interested in transit-oriented development at these four commuter rail stations.

The role of TOD within the wider NY Metro regional framework

Moses Gates, Vice President for Housing and Neighborhood Planning, Regional Plan Association explains:

To learn more about how we’re working with partners to deliver transformative transit-oriented developments, contact Kristopher Takacs.

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Transport is a long game — and a worthwhile one

While large capital programs can seem daunting — both in scale and cost — the real story is told in the years and decades that follow. That’s when the returns start rolling in.

It’s proven time and again: investment in public transport isn’t just about transport. It’s about economic growth, alleviating congestion, promoting environmental sustainability, and building stronger communities.

I am based in San Francisco, where I have dedicated my career to advancing public transit systems.  According to the American Public Transportation Association (APTA), every $1 invested in public transit . Public transit in the U.S. alone supports — with 77 percent of federal funding flowing to the private sector, supporting more than 2,000 suppliers across 48 states.

Real returns from real systems

Take Portland, Oregon, for example. TriMet’s MAX light rail lines have helped in development near its stations. Across the Dallas Rapid Area Transit (DART) service area, has tracked a cumulative economic impact of $17.1 billion since 1999 — a staggering boost to the Dallas-Fort Worth region. Transit-orientated development has flourished: in just a two-year span, 31 projects were completed within a quarter mile of DART stations with a total property value of $980 million.  

These numbers are compelling. But what’s even more important is what they represent: vibrant downtowns, job creation, housing development, better air quality, and more inclusive urban growth.

The Irish context

Ireland is on the cusp of a similar transformation. The Luas Benefits Report — which 91Ӱ�� is proud to have supported — tells a powerful story of how light rail has changed Dublin over the last two decades.

The Luas, which operates with zero emissions at street level, has become more than a mode of transport; it’s now a symbol of Dublin, delivering clear and measurable benefits. Along its corridors, over 10,000 new jobs have been created in the technology and services sectors, while an estimated 12,000 tonnes of CO₂e emissions were avoided in 2022 through modal shift. Importantly, the Luas has enabled some of Dublin’s largest housing and regeneration projects, connecting areas such as Tallaght and Sandyford to the city center, facilitating the delivery of much-needed new homes.

Looking ahead, projects like MetroLink have the potential to deliver even greater benefits — not just by moving people more efficiently, but by creating a ripple effect across communities, businesses, and industries. The vision for transport in Ireland is bold, and with the right support, it can be a catalyst for a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous future.

Acknowledging the pain points

Of course, we also need to be honest: these benefits don’t appear overnight. Large-scale infrastructure takes time — and construction can be disruptive. We’ve seen it in every city. Streets are torn up, traffic is rerouted, businesses are affected. It’s frustrating. But what I’ve learned from decades of working in this space is that the short-term pain is vastly outweighed by the long-term gain. When we push through, what emerges on the other side is well worth the wait.

Let’s talk

If this topic resonates, I invite you to come and hear my presentation on the socioeconomic significance of transport infrastructure at .  I’ll be sharing more insights, examples from around the world, and my thoughts on how we can all help make the most of these once-in-a-generation investments.

Ireland has the chance to lead by example in showing what’s possible when you invest in transport not as a cost, but as a catalyst. I look forward to being part of that journey with you. 

91Ӱ�� is proud to be sponsoring , which is taking place at the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin on Friday June 6^th.  Diane’s presentation on the socioeconomic significance of transport infrastructure will take place in the first session between 9-11am, alongside:

• Peter Walsh, Chief Executive Officer at Transport Infrastructure Ireland
• Jack Chambers TD, Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Reform and Digitalisation
• Séan Sweeney, MetroLink Programme Director, Transport Infrastructure Ireland.

The session will be chaired by Derval Cummins, Director, Transportation from 91Ӱ��.

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Seamless urban integration. Vancouver’s Commercial-Broadway Station on the SkyTrain system exemplifies cutting-edge integration with the transit system and public realm. As a major interchange connecting SkyTrain’s Expo and Millennium lines with city bus routes, pedestrian pathways and cycling infrastructure, this station forms a vital multimodal transit hub in the city’s transit network. Originally designed as two separate passenger facilities, the Broadway Station opened in 1986 and Commercial Station in 2002. The 2019 unification and expansion project, delivered by our design and construction teams, brought together the two transit lines with efficient connections to buses, forming one highly cohesive, intuitive multimodal hub in the city.

Harmonizing the two distinct building structures posed significant design challenges. Our approach employed a modular, structural mesh canopy that unified the stations visually and functionally. This canopy complemented the Broadway Station’s iconic hoop trusses and provided much needed shelter from Vancouver’s frequent rain while enhancing passenger wayfinding through the inspiring architecture.

Accessibility was another central focus. New pedestrian overpasses, escalators, elevators and signage simplified transfers and reduced congestion. The station features doors that open on both sides of the train, a unique feature of TransLink’s network that improves passenger flow and minimizes boarding delays. We designed the station to accommodate over 50,000 daily travelers — more than Vancouver International Airport — with additional capacity for future network extensions and ridership growth. All features were implemented while maintaining full accessibility and operability at the two stations.

Passenger-centric amenities. In Phoenix, Arizona, the 5.5-mile South Central Light Rail Extension highlights the critical importance of well-designed passenger amenities to enhance the transit experience. Valley Metro adopted an open-station design with features such as shade structures, water fountains and ample seating to create a comfortable and inviting environment. Custom artwork by local artists reflects the identity of the surrounding communities and transforms each station into a unique and welcoming space that encourages repeat ridership.

91Ӱ�� played a pivotal role in the development of the Downtown Hub East Station at CityScape, a standout feature of the South Central Light Rail extension. This station transformed Central Avenue into a pedestrian-friendly transit hub and introduced innovative design solutions that improve passenger flow through the urban environment. A customized side platform design with three sections allows mid-platform crossings, making it easier for riders to access nearby shops and restaurants when a train is not occupying the station. A specially engineered curved platform ensures compliance with accessibility standards by minimizing the gap between train doors and platforms. In lieu of ramps, we used ADA-compliant slopes to ease the transition from sidewalks to platforms. In-pavement lights that flash when a train approaches the station offer additional safety enhancement. All of these factors helped the station integrate seamlessly with the surrounding urban environment.

Scalability. The modular approach to designing the Réseau Express Métropolitain (REM) in Montreal sets a new benchmark for light rail transit stations. Once completely in service, REM will stretch 42.5 miles (67 kilometers) and encompass 26 stations including at-grade, underground and above-ground facilities. The station design, conceived by a consortium of Lemay, Bisson Fortin and Perkins&Will architects, prioritized efficiency, sustainability and passenger experience while promoting a cohesive architectural identity across the system.

The project was advanced as part of a public-private partnership, delivering standardized station components to streamline construction and minimize cost. Because the facility structure is modular, each station could be carefully tailored to its unique location. For example, urban stations were calibrated spatially and functionally to meet the needs of their densely populated neighborhoods. This approach allowed the stations to address specific site requirements while adhering to the overall unified design aesthetic.

Sustainability and durability were also priorities. The station designs incorporate snow and ice management systems such as heated floors to better manage accessibility throughout the harsh Montreal winter. The design included LED lighting adjusted by automated sensors — and at some stations, solar panels — to help reduce reliance on the energy grid. The clean, minimalist design allows for future network expansions and ridership growth, enabling the addition of new stations without compromising visual or functional consistency.

Future forward. Innovative stations are delivered by design. Beyond solving technical challenges, exceptional designers bring art and science to elevate the passenger experience and urban integration. As seen through exemplar new projects — such as Vancouver’s Commercial-Broadway Station, Phoenix’s South Central Extension and Montreal’s REM — the visionary light rail transit stations of tomorrow serve the public with architectural and engineering excellence that complements the offer of great urban mobility.

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Given your experience working in NYC, what are some of the unique challenges of designing transit projects in dense urban environments, and how have you navigated those complexities?

In my extensive experience working in New York City, I’ve learned that designing transit solutions requires meticulous planning and communication. Our designs focus on minimizing impacts to adjacent structures, traffic and businesses as much as possible. If impacts are unavoidable, we are transparent and realistic about their timing and severity. When developing the schedule for a mega-project, it’s important to account for the time and effort it takes to maintain adjacent rail, transit, pedestrian and vehicular traffic services.

To make sure we’re communicating effectively, we establish task forces and develop workshops between our team and various stakeholders, using these meetings to share information, concerns and progress. We coordinate with utility companies to jointly develop solutions and timelines so we can avoid surprises and unrealistic expectations. We also thoroughly outline things like work hours, noise, vibration and dust to mitigate impacts on the surrounding neighborhood. Working closely with all of our community partners is the best way to deliver a successful program.

How does transit infrastructure create transformative opportunities for communities, and how has this influenced your approach to your work?

Transit can transform a city’s landscape, redefining where people live, how they move and the opportunities they access. We look at each project holistically to secure a more vibrant outcome, striving to create reinvigorated streetscapes with better visibility, improved intersections and inclusive shared spaces. To promote public involvement, we connect with local schools to set up job fairs and internship programs. I’m proud to have played an important role in large capital programs here in New York — like my work on the Second Avenue Subway (SAS) Phase 1 project when I was with the MTA — that exemplify how new transit infrastructure can enhance existing networks and provide vital connections to underserved communities.

What motivates you the most in your work? What brings you inspiration?

I’m deeply motivated by the opportunity to apply my past experiences and lessons learned to make a lasting difference for communities across New York City. It’s humbling to know that our work promotes sustainable legacies by creating energy-efficient solutions, lowering greenhouse gas emissions and improving resiliency and overall outcomes around the city. In the end, I’m proud to be a part of projects that connect people sustainably and equitably, unlocking new opportunities for themselves and their families.

What does the future of transit in NYC look like and what possibilities are you most excited for?

I’m excited by several transformative projects happening today and on the horizon which will have a profound impact on the communities they serve. One such project is with New York City Transit, where many existing stations are being made more ADA compliant, so all passengers have easier access. Meanwhile, the Gateway Hudson Tunnel project will increase resiliency by building a new connection between New York and New Jersey and rehabilitating the existing Northeast Corridor (NEC) tunnels.

New forms of transit — such as the introduction of light rail in New York City — offer the exciting possibility of expanding the existing rail corridor, creating new destinations and providing value to areas in need. I look forward to leaning on my experience and delivering the types of large capital projects needed to connect neighborhoods and expand opportunities for travelers throughout the boroughs.

The post Transforming Transit: Meet Tim Gianfrancesco appeared first on Blog.

Where it all begins

Identifying and securing funding is the first step in planning for CBTC development. Transportation agencies often must juggle competing priorities within their capital programs, departmental budgets and timelines. To tackle this, agency leaders need to set clear priorities and align their train control migration with overall capital improvement plans. With funding usually tight, exploring federal, state and local grants can be a crucial part of project development. By identifying these resources early, agencies can map out a realistic project scope and create a phased plan for rolling out the CBTC system.

Partnering for success

By engaging with a trusted partner, agencies can advance a smoother, safer and more cost-effective CBTC transition while building a solid foundation for long-term operational success. Experienced partners bring specialized expertise in key areas such as technology, design, alternative delivery and implementation strategies, risk mitigation, cost reduction and knowledge transfer. Their know-how and deep understanding help them spot potential challenges early on, resolve issues quickly and avoid design or implementation mistakes — saving agencies time and money.

Collaborating with the right team can pave the way for long-term success in agencies. By prioritizing the future, they can assist in training agency staff, providing clear and thorough documentation, and developing scalable systems that simplify maintenance and facilitate seamless growth. Moreover, a partner who understands agency procedures, departments, and business processes can customize procurement and rollout strategies to align with agency requirements. Our 91Ӱ�� team offers these insights to the Maryland Department of Transportation / Maryland Transit Administration (MDOT MTA) as it implements a new CBTC system for the Baltimore Metro. As the program and construction manager for the project, we act as MDOT MTA’s trusted advisor, working alongside the agency and leveraging our technical expertise and understanding of agency operations to guide the contractor toward optimal solutions that fulfill MDOT MTA’s needs. This collaborative approach is streamlining the process and reducing costs for the new system.

Plan the rollout

CBTC offers many benefits — like cutting down on system maintenance — but it’s no secret that development and installation is challenging, particularly when it is overlayed onto an existing system. For agencies with tight budgets, breaking the project into phases, such as assessment and planning, design and integration, and pilot demonstrations can keep it moving forward.

Building a solid phased approach is often a juggling act. To create an effective plan, agencies need a clear understanding of their current system — its strengths, needs, available funding and resources. This all must be weighed against CBTC components and installation capabilities to establish the rollout timeline and how to tackle it. Whether it’s a short- or long-term project, the goal should be to complete each phase thoroughly, build on progress and get the system ready for full CBTC installation.

Improve the current system

Introducing CBTC components incrementally is often the most practical means of installation. This allows transit agencies to lay the groundwork for full system deployment while improving existing transit infrastructure.

Fiber optic networks, for example, serve as the backbone of CBTC and represent an excellent starting point for development. Building out and integrating these networks enhances older transit systems by enabling critical functions such as station-to-station communication, live CCTV monitoring for security, and real-time public service announcements. These capabilities prepare the system for CBTC migration while providing immediate benefits, including improved safety and communication. Real-time wayfinding and emergency incident management information can assist passengers during disruptions. To ensure a smooth transition, agencies might consider issuing requests for information to the industry to confirm that communication infrastructure installed in advance will fully support future CBTC signaling migration.

The path forward

Transitioning to CBTC is a journey, not a leap. By securing funding, collaborating with experienced professionals, planning phased rollouts, and enhancing existing infrastructure, transit agencies can build a foundation for safer, faster and more reliable service. Incremental improvements today pave the way for tomorrow’s CBTC systems, delivering immediate benefits while setting the stage for long-term success.

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Tell us about your career journey and current role at 91Ӱ��.

Throughout my 30-year career, I’ve served as a principal or project director for major infrastructure projects in the transportation and energy sectors. My passion for transit kickstarted with my aspirations to improve communities by providing people mobility choices to get to school, work, access to better healthcare and to live a more sustainable life.

In my new role as acting Transit Market Lead for the Americas, I’ve leveraged my transit and rail program and project experience into a long-earned reputation for having a keen sense of industry trends in the transit and rail fields. My ability to identify and prioritize strategies that help agencies succeed and communities thrive also helps 91Ӱ�� maintain its role as an industry leader.

What major trends across industries will impact the transit sector?

The rapid development and adoption of new technologies and the green economy are changing the way transit agencies address everyday tasks and how the largest transit infrastructure projects and programs are being designed and constructed.

There are shifts toward modernization such as the emergence of artificial intelligence (AI), zero-emission vehicle technologies, continued rise of automation and the re-emergence of modular construction, which support the transit industries goals of improving service and driving costs of capital projects and transit operations down. The continued adoption and application of these techniques and technologies are paving the way for the transit industry’s future.  For instance:

• The transit industry has started to adopt the use of building information modeling (BIM) and digital twin in major capital projects. AI will provide an opportunity for further increase in automation of BIM design by employing a process of “designing to cost”. ��A significant increase in the capital cost of infrastructure projects and a diminishing availability of operations funds increases the opportunity for the industry to put these new techniques and technologies to good use.
• Another trend is the re-emergence of modular design and construction or design for manufacture and assembly (DFMA). By using a manufacturing approach to infrastructure projects, this trend can drive capital and operating costs down while increasing sustainability and reducing the carbon footprint of a project.
• Last, energy transition and renewables will continue to trend with new advancements and innovations in everything from energy storage to management solutions to new renewable profiles coming to market. In my role, I’ve witnessed transit agencies in the U.S. take advantage of funding available through the bipartisan infrastructure bill for low/zero-emission vehicles to refresh their bus fleets.

Highlight your biggest achievements at 91Ӱ�� and in the global transportation industry.

My passion for the everchanging industry is illuminated in my work at 91Ӱ�� on transit and rail projects which led to the honor of being named as one of the Top 50 Women Leaders of California for 2024.

I’ve worked on every rail line currently operating for Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) and helped to develop the early vision for light rail in Austin. I also helped develop the 2018 California State Rail Plan that re-oriented the plan to focus on customer outcomes first. On Valley Link, I’m helping to develop a rail service that will connect Central Valley communities to jobs in the Bay Area of California with zero-emission, green hydrogen trains.

In addition to those projects, I’ve served in operational and business development roles, supporting the executive leadership team at 91Ӱ�� by driving transformation through strategy, growth, leveraging trends and future-forward thought leadership in transit and rail and the ESG space.

I’ve witnessed and felt the positive impact our projects can have on individuals, communities and the world. The tangible, positive outcomes have strengthened my ability to place myself in my clients’ shoes to assist them in reaching their goals.  At 91Ӱ��, I see myself continuing to support exponential growth while mentoring the next generation of diverse leaders so they can not only succeed at 91Ӱ�� but also drive technology and modern approaches to delivering transit infrastructure globally.

My best advice to aspiring leaders is to lean in, trust and bet on yourself and your ideas. Most especially in a dynamic, future-oriented industry like transit, be bold in bringing your ideas to the forefront.  It takes diverse voices to truly make a meaningful and sustainable impact in any industry.

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This week, we are highlighting a program manager from our Transportation business in Canada and exploring how he and his team delivered a safe, sustainable and innovative transit system in the City of Edmonton. Josh is the project manager for the Valley Line Light Rail Transit (LRT), currently western Canada’s largest LRT owner’s engineer assignment. In this role, he leads a team of nearly 20 multi-disciplinary subconsultants and a specialized risk and claims preparedness team throughout the preliminary engineering, procurement, design and construction phases. 

Josh is an accomplished program manager with more than 20 years of experience in construction, alternative project delivery, and management of large-scale infrastructure projects. He is known for his exceptional leadership skills and his ability to effectively bring together consulting teams, public entities and stakeholders to deliver complex projects. With more than 10 years of valuable experience in developing and executing complex public-private partnership (P3) projects, Josh has a strong foundation of field work and integration, particularly in urban environments where he has successfully navigated the unique challenges of rapidly growing city landscapes. 

Tell us about a project that has impacted or been a major highlight of your career. How is it delivering a better world?����

One of the standout moments in my career was riding as a paying passenger on the new Valley Line LRT in Edmonton — a project I’m incredibly proud to have worked on. This LRT isn’t just a new transit line; it’s a game-changer for the city. 

By decreasing car dependency across the City of Edmonton, our work on the Valley Line LRT is reducing carbon emissions while preserving green spaces along its route. This new line is also improving the quality of life for people by increasing access to essential services and creating safer, more connected communities. At the same time, it has created new jobs for the community and, in the long run, will benefit commuters financially while potentially boosting property values and local business activity. Critically, we also hit the mark with our client by delivering the project on time and within budget thanks to the success of the P3 process. This project is helping to build a better, more sustainable future for Edmonton — it’s been a highlight of my career to be part of it. 

What was a key challenge you/your team faced while working on this complex LRT project? How did you solve it?  

One of the biggest challenges we faced while working on the Valley Line LRT project was that it was the City of Edmonton’s first P3 project. Navigating this new delivery model required a lot of collaboration and innovation. We relied heavily on 91Ӱ��’s alternative delivery experts to guide the city through the complexities of the P3 process and bring their vision to life. 

We adopted a “one-team” approach, setting up a joint project office where city staff and 91Ӱ�� leads worked side by side. We even created a buddy system to foster close collaboration, which was key to our success. This approach allowed us to tackle issues in real-time and keep everyone aligned on project goals. 

During the design and construction portion of Phase 1, the city decided to expand the system by 100 percent. Doubling a system that wasn’t even finished brought a whole new set of challenges, particularly in procurement and technical aspects. Having a shared space to collaborate in real-time made all the difference. We struck a balance between performance and prescriptive requirements that aligned with the city’s objectives, while leveraging the benefits of a design-build approach. 

COVID-19 also created very unique challenges, especially during procurement. I’m very proud of how our team quickly pivoted to a virtual environment and continued to successfully meet the city’s procurement requirements despite the obstacles created by the pandemic. 

There were definitely breakthrough moments — seeing how our innovative solutions and close teamwork helped navigate uncharted waters was incredibly rewarding. It reinforced the importance of collaboration, flexibility, and a shared vision in overcoming even the toughest challenges. 

How has 91Ӱ�� enabled you and your teams to cultivate the expertise needed to deliver Valley Line LRT and future work like it? 

91Ӱ�� has been instrumental in helping me and my team develop the expertise we needed to successfully deliver the Valley Line LRT project and to prepare for future work. One of the key advantages has been our ability to draw on our global network of experts. Early on, we were able to bring in specialized knowledge from around the world, giving us the ability to support our local clients in ways that very few other firms can. Accessing 91Ӱ��’s global expertise has become even more streamlined over time, and there’s a genuine willingness across the organization to collaborate and share knowledge. 

This project also provided opportunities for skill development, not just for me, but for the entire team. I was able to mentor team members to broaden their skillsets and prepare them for future challenges. That mentorship was as worthwhile for me as it was for them because it strengthened our team and helped us deliver a better outcome for our client. 

Working so closely with the client on this project also gave us deeper insights into their evolving needs and emerging industry trends. This hands-on experience has been fundamental in enabling us to better understand and anticipate our future clients’ needs. 

91Ӱ��’s global support and our collaborative work environment have enhanced our ability to deliver on this project while also setting us up for continued success in the industry. 

How has this experience shaped your approach to future work and expanded your career at 91Ӱ��?  

The Valley Line LRT project has significantly shaped my approach and broadened my career. Transit projects are inherently complex and varied, which gave me the chance to collaborate with a diverse group of people and tackle challenges from multiple angles. This experience reinforced the importance of adaptability, teamwork and innovation in delivering successful outcomes. 

One of the key lessons I’ve learned is the value of partnering with clients and stakeholders. Understanding their needs and working alongside them from the start has proven essential in navigating the complexities of large-scale projects. This approach has prepared me to take on new challenges with confidence, knowing that 91Ӱ�� has the expertise and resources to support me. 

The experience I gained on the Valley Line has also created opportunities for me to contribute to similar projects around the world. It’s incredibly rewarding to apply what I’ve learned to help shape the future of urban transit in other cities. 91Ӱ��’s commitment to addressing urban growth challenges while meeting ESG goals aligns perfectly with my own values, and I’m proud to continue supporting projects that make a meaningful impact. 

This project has not only expanded my career but also reinforced my belief in the work we do at 91Ӱ��. I’m excited to take these lessons forward as we continue to tackle the complex challenges of urban development. 

Learn more about the and how it is making a positive impact for the City of Edmonton.

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