NWT government to invest $222 million in infrastructure
By STAFF REPOR
Construction Infrastructure RoadsThe Northwest Territories government has earmarked $70 million for construction of a 135-km highway connecting the town of Inuvik and the hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk.
That represents close to one third of the territorial government’s plans to invest $222 million in infrastructure projects this year as outlined by members of the legislative assembly (MLA) during recent capital budget talks, according to a CBC report.
The all-weather highway is expected to decrease the cost of living for Tuktoyaktuk’s roughly 850 residents, increase energy sector exploration and tourism in the area, and allow for greater regional access to services by providing year-round access to Tuktoyaktuk, located in the northwesternmost part of the territory.
Another major project on the agenda, renovations to the Stanton Territorial Hospital in Yellowknife, could receive a large portion of funding as well. One local MLA estimated it would cost up to $400 million to repair the hospital.
The Northwest Territories government will continue budget talks this week.