SD8 Reassures Teachers on Creston Bypass Plans Halted for Now

Representatives from the Kootenay Lake Teachers Federation expressed concerns regarding a potential Highway 3 bypass in Creston during a recent School District No. 8 (SD8) board meeting. Their primary worry was the impact such a bypass could have on the outdoor space of Kootenay River Secondary School. In response, the Federation urged the SD8 board to advocate for adjustments to the bypass plans with the Ministry of Transportation and the Town of Creston.

Following this meeting, SD8 staff reached out to both the Ministry and the Town of Creston for clarification on the project. According to the Town, there are currently no plans to advance the bypass project. In a letter to the Teachers Federation, Board Chair Susan Chew stated, “The Town also states that there are currently no plans that would impact Kootenay River Senior Secondary School to such an extent.”

Susan Chew acknowledged the concerns raised by the delegation and emphasized that SD8 would not support any project that threatens the school’s outdoor functionality. “While I understand and acknowledge the apprehensions regarding potential effects,” she wrote, “I wish to clarify that we would not advocate for this project if it threatened the school’s continued functional use of its outdoor space.”

Future Engagement and Advocacy Efforts

The Ministry of Transportation plans to meet with the SD8 board in spring 2026 to provide further updates on the matter. Chew reiterated the board’s commitment to advocating for safe and accessible school grounds, indicating that they would continue to seek specific information about the bypass project and its potential timeline.

Additionally, Chew mentioned that both the Ministry and the Town of Creston assured her that if a road realignment or bypass were deemed feasible in the future, there would be extensive consultation with the school district, the public, Indigenous communities, and local business operators. “It would be many years in the future, following extensive consultation and multiple approvals,” she noted.

The ongoing communication between the SD8 board and local authorities reflects a proactive approach to ensuring that community interests, particularly those of students and educators, are prioritized in any future developments. As discussions continue, the SD8 board remains committed to safeguarding the educational environment at Kootenay River Secondary School.