Tłıchǫ Highway — critical infrastructure connecting the communities of the Northwest Territories

Interview Questions:

What are your project’s biggest positive contributions to the Arctic, at the regional or local level?
The project’s biggest contribution to the Arctic is its infrastructure development. This has a very important role in the longevity and health of local communities. Firstly, the Tłı̨chǫ Highway project will essentially improve the ease of access to various health care services for local residents. Secondly, there will be improved access to goods and services that will reduce the cost of living in the region. And thirdly, the project brings support concerning new social and employment opportunities while helping attract further interest from industry in the exploration and development of natural resources.

How does your project help develop human capital in the communities where it’s located?
Providing employment and economic development opportunities ensures communities remain healthy and vibrant. North Star Infrastructure GP has signed up to a detailed training plan that requires them to employ and train Tłı̨chǫ citizens into various roles through the construction, operations, and maintenance periods – with particular attention towards creating opportunities for women and youth. This will ensure that significant knowledge and capacity transfer occurs, building on the skills that already exist within the Tłı̨chǫ communities.

North Star Infrastructure GP is contractually obligated to ensure Tłı̨chǫ, Northern and Local Businesses deliver a meaningful proportion of the project, and achievement of these obligations will be carefully monitored by the GNWT. The employment and training opportunities associated with the project allows residents to better support themselves and supports the development of a strong northern workforce.

How have you ensured inclusive and equitable consultations with local / indigenous communities?
The Tłı̨chǫ Highway project ensures inclusive and equitable consultations with the local communities through various collaborations. For example, as part of the project, North Star Infrastructure (NSI) has set up a Community Coordination Lead (CCL) who works directly with the local communities to solicit their inputs and needs while addressing grievances. Furthermore, the CCL’s responsibility includes coordinating workshops and training to develop the necessary skills of residents to get them ready for working life.

The Government of the Northwest Territories has been working collaboratively with the Tłı̨chǫ Government (TG) to advance the Tłı̨chǫ All-Season Road project, through the environmental assessment process, procurement and now construction. Since 2012, the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation (TIC), the business wing of TG, has had an equity share in the project.

How does your project balance economic and social goals with environmental protection?
The Tłı̨chǫ Highway project has undergone an environmental assessment which was required under the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act (MVRMA). This assessment determined if the project was likely to have significant adverse impacts on the environment or be of public concern. The project was approved by the board and the Tłı̨chǫ Government has separately concurred with the board’s report. The report, conclusively, shows that the project balances economic and social goals while ensuring that the environment remains protected.

What specific mitigation measures, technological or otherwise, has your project put in place to safeguard the local environment?
The Tłı̨chǫ Highway project has put in place significant measures to ensure environmental protection and restrict potential future hazards. The current mitigation measures associated with the project to safeguard the environment include plans associated with permafrost, wildlife, caribou habitats, fish habitats and sediment erosion.