The Sea to Sky School District is urging the District of Squamish to address a serious safety concern at École Squamish Elementary. The issue involves commercial vehicles parking in a shared access lane near the school instead of using designated spots.
In a letter to the District, School Board Chair Rebecca Barley warned that this creates risks, especially during student drop-off and pick-up times.
“The safety of our students, families, and staff is our top priority,” Barley wrote. “We hope to collaborate with the Municipality to find a solution that minimizes risk to pedestrians and improves traffic in this area.”
The board explained that the access lane is meant to provide a clear path for vehicles. When commercial trucks park there, other drivers are forced to go around them, sometimes crossing into oncoming traffic. This puts students walking to and from school in danger.
“Drivers must navigate around parked vehicles, often moving into oncoming lanes,” Barley stated. “This is especially concerning during busy drop-off and pick-up times when students and families are most at risk.”
School District 48 is calling on the District of Squamish to take immediate action to prevent parking in the lane and ensure commercial vehicles use designated areas. The board has also expressed a willingness to work with the District on safety solutions.
“The Board is keen to work alongside the DOS to support any measures that ensure the safe and efficient use of the access lane,” Barley said.
