Bank Stabilization Work Underway at Lee Creek

The Town of Cardston has begun essential bank stabilization work on Lee Creek, near the fire hall and the 3rd Avenue bridge. For years, erosion has been gradually eating away at the creek banks, and recent assessments showed a rising risk to local infrastructure, including 1st Street East, the road leading to the fire hall, and the bridge itself.

This project aims to protect the road from further erosion, which, in the event of a significant flood, could have disrupted access to the fire hall, a critical service point for the community. To prevent this, large boulders will be used as rip-rap along the creek banks to reinforce the area and stop further deterioration. Residents may notice the large rocks piled in staging areas along the creek, between 5th Avenue and 3rd Avenue, which are being prepared for this purpose.

Current Road Closures and Detours

To accommodate the work, a small section of 1st Street East is closed, but a detour is in place that minimizes disruption to local traffic. The Town is working efficiently to complete the project by October 31st, as mandated, though some road paving may not be finished until the spring.

Additionally, as part of the overall improvement effort, the intersection of 1st Street East and 3rd Avenue has been re-aligned. This change corrects a long-standing misalignment, improving traffic flow for the future.

Environmental Considerations

The project is subject to strict environmental regulations due to the protected status of Lee Creek. The creek runs through sensitive riparian habitat, an area essential for maintaining water quality and wildlife. The Town has coordinated extensively with Alberta environmental authorities to ensure the work complies with all necessary regulations while safeguarding the creek's ecosystem​.