PORT ALBERNI, B.C. — A group of Grade 12 students from Alberni District Secondary School have proposed three safety improvements for Cathedral Grove, a popular tourist stop along Highway 4, in response to growing concerns about pedestrian safety in the area.
The students, part of Anne Ostwald’s Social Justice class, have recommended the construction of an overhead pedestrian walkway, an underground tunnel, and the addition of sidewalks along the busy highway. Their proposals are the culmination of a year-end project informed by personal experience and a school-wide survey of approximately 300 students.
“Why wait until someone is hurt or killed before action is taken?” said student Hannah Banford, emphasizing the urgency of the issue.
Cathedral Grove, known for its centuries-old Douglas fir trees, attracts thousands of visitors annually. However, the narrow roadway, limited parking, and recent installation of concrete barriers to deter illegal stopping have heightened safety challenges for pedestrians attempting to cross the highway.
Environmental concerns have historically complicated proposed safety upgrades. A 2011 plan to expand parking was shelved following opposition from environmental groups seeking to preserve the forest’s natural integrity.
Many of the students involved in the project are new drivers who frequently travel through the area and have experienced the hazards firsthand.
“It’s very intimidating. I had to keep an eye on my surroundings because you don’t know when someone will cross the road unexpectedly,” said Krista Samuel, a student in the class.
Their research estimated that the cost of constructing an overhead walkway could range between $5.7 million and $11.2 million. While the students recognize the need for improved infrastructure, they are also mindful of the environmental impact, particularly the potential removal of trees.
“It’s difficult. You want to improve parking and safety, but the trees are the reason people visit. You don’t want to ruin that,” said student Amaya Parmar.
The group has submitted their report to the Ministry of Transportation and Transit, the City of Port Alberni, Mosaic Forest Management, MLA Josie Osborne, and the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District.
In a written response to CHEK News, the Ministry of Transportation and Transit acknowledged receipt of the student report and expressed appreciation for their civic engagement. The ministry confirmed it is reviewing the recommendations and reiterated its commitment to public safety.
“Safety is the Ministry of Transportation and Transit’s top priority. Concrete barriers have been installed to prevent illegal parking and protect pedestrians in high-traffic areas like Cathedral Grove,” the statement read. “The ministry will continue to monitor the area and evaluate the effectiveness of these measures while considering future improvements.”
The ministry pledged to respond to the students before the end of the school year.
“Social justice is about creating positive change and impacting your community — not through complaints, but through action and thoughtful solutions,” said Ostwald, commending her students’ initiative.
