By careful observation and by being aware of the different microclimates around each side of the house, you can put the plants that need the most sun or shade, etc. in the most appropriate place. Some people will replace the lawn on the boulevard with flowers, shrubs or small trees that will create a buffer zone and absorb the pollutants from the street. I would use a non-food planting for that purpose. Another problem found in cities is the unknown quality of the soil. By taking many soil samples to the university lab and asking students for a soil analysis, you will learn what is in your soil.
Cities have an amazing amount of diversity in plant material.
It's a good way to start a garden with little input, by collecting surpluses, or prunings or thinnings, from long time gardeners or neighbors. It's also a good way to meet friends and learn more about the place where you live. Gr goire Lamoureux is the Director of the Kootenay Permaculture Institute, Box 43, Winlaw BC V0G 2J0.