Behchokǫ̀ residents give feedback on bridge replacement project

Residents in Behchokǫ̀ are largely supportive of plans to replace the Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge but want to ensure key concerns are addressed.

The territorial government is planning to replace the bridge, which spans Dehk’è Frank Channel and connects Rae and Yellowknife to the south by road year-round.

The bridge, located on Highway 3 between Rae and Edzo, was built in 1960 and has reached the end of its life. The territory says it needs replacing to meet traffic demands, while the existing overhead truss structure restricts oversized loads needed for housing, heavy construction and industry.

The NWT government released a report on Thursday compiling feedback on the project from recent engagement sessions in Behchokǫ̀ as well as meetings with the Tłı̨chǫ Government, Community Government of Behchokǫ̀ and residents of Frank Channel.

The territory said many residents shared concerns with the existing bridge including limited visibility, weight restrictions and a lack of lighting.

Plans for the new bridge

The NWT government said the new bridge will have two lanes with a separated pedestrian sidewalk on the north side and a height barrier on both sides of the bridge. It will have a lifespan of 75 years and has been designed to minimize the number and size of supports in the water.

The territory plans to build the new bridge immediately north of the existing one. Construction will require the temporary installation of causeways and ice bridges and work is planned to begin this fall on a construction camp that can accommodate 60 to 90 workers.

The territory said it will maintain access to the current bridge until construction of the new bridge is complete, though at times there will be single-lane alternating traffic.

The NWT government said creating approaches to the new bridge will require demolition of the existing bridge. Construction and decommissioning is expected to take place from 2026 to 2029.

The project is being funded through the National Trade Corridors Fund, with the federal government contributing $52.5 million and the territorial government $17.5 million.

Cultural, environmental, socio-economic considerations

According to the territory’s report, residents were generally supportive of plans for the new bridge and safer access between communities.

They voiced concerns, however, about navigating traffic during construction as community members actively fish in the channel. They recommended that the territory engage with community members to understand the location of nets and current fishing activities.

Residents also stressed the importance of protecting wildlife, fish and their habitat, saying the channel is an important migration route for fish.

Many residents said they strongly oppose the bridge project affecting a vacant cabin, referred to by the territory as cabin six or “oldman’s cabin,” which is culturally significant to the community. They asked the project team to explore alternative construction access to protect the cabin.

Residents further said it is important that the project is referred to as the Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge rather than just the Frank Channel Bridge as Dehk’è is the Tłı̨chǫ word for the channel.

Respondents expressed interest in local socio-economic benefits from the project including employment, training and subcontracting.

Finally, some residents said the legacy of the current bridge is important and recommended that a portion of the structure be displayed as a tourist attraction and legacy piece.

What next?

The NWT government said the feedback will inform bridge design and construction plans, as will a traditional knowledge study and technical studies.

The territory is planning further in-person sessions in Behchokǫ̀ to share the findings with community members. They have been scheduled from 4-8pm on each of April 23 and 24 at the Behchokǫ̀ Cultural Centre, with dinner provided at both sessions.

The NWT government is preparing to seek a water licence and land use permit from the Wek’èezhii Land and Water Board for the project.