Waterway crossing will bridge 2 Indigenous communities in Chilliwack

Vehicle, pedestrian crossing will connect Cedarbrook developments at Shxwhá:y and Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt

Waterway crossing will bridge 2 Indigenous communities in Chilliwack Published 10:30 am Friday, July 17, 2026 Two Indigenous communities in Chilliwack will soon be connected by a waterway crossing. Cedarbrook Crossing will bridge Shxwhá:y Village and Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt First Nation together, and it’s part of a new residential development currently under construction.

Cedarbrook, a neighbourhood on Shxwhá:y Village built by Westbow Construction, is being expanded to Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt. People gathered on Tuesday (July 14) at Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt for the ribbon cutting of the Cedarbrook expansion, including the announcement of the bridge that will connect the two first nations communities. It’s a “significant” project that will help families grow for decades, said Andrew Tinkl, director of sales and marketing with Westbow.

The expected completion date of the bridge is set for the end of the year. It will be a two-lane, 100-metre crossing for vehicles and will also have pedestrian access. The bridge will be built across Waterlily Slough, also known as Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt Creek, which separates Shxwhá:y and Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt.

Randy Leon, Chief of Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt, said he’s “excited” for the future of his band and also the neighbouring one. “We’re bringing our communities together. Doing this work, building those beautiful homes, and sharing a project together will definitely mean a lot to both of our communities.”

Both bands have a long-term partnership with Westbow. Kwaw-kwaw-a-pilt has a 150-year lease which runs through to the year 2173, while Shxwhá:y Village’s 125-year lease goes until 2144. Tinkl added that Westbow has big plans for Cedarbrook.

“The team’s got amazing plans for things in the future, like schools and amenities... things that will make this community take shape and take root and be a fantastic place for future generations to grow up.”