Investing in local infrastructure supports the unique needs of northern communities. The governments of Canada and Yukon are investing in modern public infrastructure that will help create jobs, while improving Northern Canadians’ quality of life and contributing to stronger communities.

The Government of Canada delivered the first of two $8.25-million annual installments of the federal Gas Tax Fund (GTF) to Yukon. In total, the territory will be provided with $16.5 million this year through the fund.

The GTF is a long-term, indexed source of funding that supports local infrastructure projects across the Territory each year. The City of Dawson is planning to put its share into the purchase of a new water delivery truck to continue to provide high quality water services to residents. In the Carcross/Tagish First Nation, residents will enjoy an upgraded swimming pool, with improved access to aquatic activities for families and seniors from across the region. In the City of Whitehorse, the funding will go towards new and upgraded multi-use trails to promote active transportation such as walking and biking, encouraging healthy lifestyles.

Drinking water, recreation and local roads are only three of the 18 project categories eligible for funding under the program. This wide range demonstrates the flexibility of the GTF in allowing communities to direct their allocations to their most pressing local needs.