The Northwest Territories government has decided to include an additional segment of the Mackenzie Valley Highway in an ongoing environmental assessment. This new section will connect Norman Wells to the Dempster Highway, alongside the initial assessment focusing on the planned roadway linking Wrigley and Norman Wells.

The government clarified that this addition aims to streamline processes and does not diminish the environmental review requirements or authorize construction. The Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board is responsible for conducting these assessments, described as comprehensive evaluations to determine potential significant environmental impacts or public concerns associated with the development.

Following the assessment, the review board will provide recommendations to the territorial government. These recommendations may entail allowing the project to proceed with additional mitigation measures in compliance with existing regulations 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, stressing the need for readiness to seize opportunities promptly. She highlighted that this decision will facilitate a more coordinated and efficient advancement of the project.

Previously, the project was referred to the federal government’s Major Projects Office in March. The project was put on hold by Ottawa two weeks ago, citing the need to control wildfires in the region before construction activities could commence.