Mr. Speaker, in early January 2014, the construction of the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk highway was officially started.
This is an important first step to realizing the long-term goal of an all-weather road through the Mackenzie Valley. This is the largest and one of the most challenging infrastructure developments ever undertaken by the Government of the Northwest Territories. It is a strategic infrastructure investment
that will strengthen and diversify our economy and is a priority of the 17th Legislative Assembly.
The project will improve the quality of life for community residents by providing enhanced economic and social opportunities, enabling economic development and strengthening our country’s claim to Arctic sovereignty.
Mr. Speaker, the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk highway will be built on an alluvial deposit that is ice-rich with continuous permafrost, a terrain no other highway in the world has been constructed over. The design and planning has been undertaken by a team of experts, including world-renowned engineers and permafrost scientists. The nature of the project presents risks that are a challenge to manage. The department has taken the steps necessary to ensure the project is delivered in a manner that addresses the concerns, expectations and requirements of all parties involved.
Mr. Speaker, we have made significant progress. The department has obtained all required permits and authorizations, completed land and royalty negotiations, entered into the federal funding agreement and finalized the project design. We have done additional work on project risks, project management structure and communications, including the launch of a dedicated website to keep the public updated.
Mr. Speaker, steps have been taken to ensure the project can be delivered within the available budget of $299 million. The new highway has been procured within a single design-build contract. This has brought unit prices down and ensures appropriate risk-sharing related to the design.
In addition, EGT Northwind, the project company, has demonstrated its commitment to maximizing local involvement by engaging businesses or employing residents from all regions of the NWT. Mr. Speaker, it is estimated that up to 600 people will be employed during the peak of the highway construction.
The contractor has already trained 38 individuals on different types of equipment using a simulator. Two additional driver-training classes are planned for the near future. Already, five graduates of a Class 1 driver licence with air brakes training program completed in Inuvik in November have received employment offers. In addition, a training program for wildlife monitors was delivered recently in Inuvik, Tuktoyaktuk and Aklavik.
Mr. Speaker, we are excited to have officially launched the Inuvik-Tuktoyaktuk Highway Project after investing a substantial amount of time and planning effort to bring the project to this important, defining moment in northern history. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.