The Government of Canada has announced that they will be investing over $400 million to advance the Mackenzie Valley Highway Project.
This investment is an important step towards the establishment of all-season travel between Wrigley and Norman Wells, as well as connecting to the Dempster Highway south of Inuvik.
“With $405 million in federal funding through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund, we can advance this critical infrastructure while continuing the engineering, environmental and planning work needed to move the full Mackenzie Valley Highway forward,” said Minister Caroline Wawzonek.
This federal investment will be used for the construction of the Great Bear River Bridge near Tulita, Phase 2 of the Prohibition Creek Access Road, and finalizing the environmental assessment and design for the highway.
“Safe and dependable transportation infrastructure is essential to strong, connected communities across Canada’s North and Arctic,” said Minister of Transport Steven MacKinnon.
The Mackenzie Valley Highway will help strengthen local supply lines in the North, allow year-round community resupply, and improve access to health and emergency resources for remote communities.
“By improving year-round connectivity, supporting economic development, strengthening Canada’s security and sovereignty, and helping communities access the essential services they need, the Mackenzie Valley Highway reflects what can be achieved when federal, territorial, and Indigenous governments and organisations work in partnership to advance shared priorities,” said Minister Rebecca Alty.
The Mackenzie Valley Highway was referred to the federal government’s Major Project Office earlier this year, allowing the project to move forward at an accelerated pace.
