The government of the Northwest Territories has decided to include an additional segment of the Mackenzie Valley Highway in an ongoing environmental evaluation. The current assessment by the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board focuses on the planned route connecting Wrigley and Norman Wells. The new section to be assessed is a corridor linking Norman Wells to the Dempster Highway.
This move is aimed at streamlining the assessment process without compromising environmental review standards or granting construction approval. The environmental impact review conducted by the board involves a comprehensive analysis to determine the potential significant adverse effects on the environment or public concerns resulting from the development.
After the evaluation, the review board will provide recommendations to the territorial government, which may include allowing the project to proceed while adhering to regulations with additional mitigation measures or recommending rejection of the project. Caroline Wawzonek, the minister overseeing strategic infrastructure, energy, and supply chains, emphasized the national importance of the highway project and the need to be prepared for upcoming opportunities.
Wawzonek highlighted the decision as a step towards advancing the project in a more efficient and cohesive manner. The project was referred to the federal government’s Major Projects Office earlier this year. Recent delays in construction were announced by Ottawa due to ongoing wildfires in the region, halting the project until the fire situation is under control.
