The federal government has approved the GNWT’s request to redirect $65 million from a 2018 agreement toward early Mackenzie Valley Highway road, bridge and planning work.
The money comes from previous funding the federal government committed toward highway planning, environmental assessment and related projects in a National Trade Corridors Fund contribution agreement in 2018.
The NWT and federal governments said amending that agreement to redirect funding means “standalone projects” can advance while the environmental assessment and regulatory approvals for the Mackenzie Valley Highway are completed.
“Directing $65 million in existing funding toward priority road, bridge and planning work will help deliver progress along this important corridor and lay the groundwork for long-term growth and opportunity across the North,” stated federal transport minister Steven MacKinnon in a news release.
“The Mackenzie Valley Highway will strengthen northern transportation and supply chains, connect communities and create new economic opportunities across the region.”
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Work that will be funded by the $65 million includes resurfacing Highway 1 between N’Dulee Crossing and Wrigley, which is already underway, as well as relocating the Oscar Creek Bridge, realignment of the Christina Creek beginning in 2027, and planning work for the Smith Creek Bridge and Wrigley bypass road.
“The Mackenzie Valley Highway is a transformative project for the Northwest Territories and an important part of building a stronger, more connected North,” said Caroline Wawzonek, NWT’s infrastructure minister, in the news release.
“The work advancing this year will improve existing infrastructure, support future construction and create opportunities for northern and Indigenous workers and businesses.”
The Wrigley to Norman Wells section of the Mackenzie Valley Highway is currently undergoing environment review. GNWT representatives told attendees at a Sahtu Readiness Conference in Norman Wells last week the territory is working to expand that assessment to cover the entire highway to Inuvik.
Routing of the highway has not been finalized. The GNWT is conducting public engagement sessions in communities along the proposed route, including a recently announced session at Fort Good Hope’s community hall on August 12 at 6pm.
