JOHANNESBURG (miningweekly.com) – Canada Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Yukon Premier Sandy Silver have announced that more than $360-million in combined federal and territorial funding will be designated for the improvement of road access in two mineral-rich areas – the Dawson Range, in central Yukon, and Nahanni Range road, in south-eastern Yukon.
The Yukon Resource Gateway project will help upgrade over 650 km of road and build or replace numerous bridges, culverts and stream crossings.
"Modern infrastructure is key to developing and properly managing the incredible natural resources we have. By providing easier access to important resources across Yukon, the Yukon Resource Gateway project will help create good, middle-class jobs, promote long-term economic prosperity, and support a strong, sustainable North," said Trudeau in a statement.
In the Dawson Range, four separate public road systems will be upgraded. Improvements to the Nahanni Range road will include upgrades that span its junction with the Campbell highway to the border between Yukon and the Northwest Territories.
"The Resource Gateway project is one of the most significant projects ever undertaken in this territory and will have an incredibly positive impact on the Yukon economy. With this commitment, we will continue working with First Nations to complete the project agreements," noted Silver.