GNWT and SSI commit to continued collaboration on advancing the Mackenzie Valley Highway Project

July 25, 2024

YELLOWKNIFE,(July25,Chairperson2024)– of Sahtu Secretariat Incorporated (SSI), signed an Amended and Restated Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for Collaboration on the

Advancement of the Mackenzie Valley Highway (MVH) Project.

The builds on previous commitments of both the Government of the NorthwestAmendedandTerritoriesRestatd MOU(GNWT) and SSI to work together to plan, promote and seek funding for the MVH project. Its signing demonstrates the intent of both parties to continue to strengthen the working relationship on this transformative strategic infrastructure initiative.

The MVH project proposes to extend all-season highway access approximately 321 kilometres from the end of NWT Highway 1 at Wrigley to Tulita and Norman Wells. It is currently undergoing Environmental Assessment by the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board.

As project planning continues, the GNWT and SSI will continue to work closely with residents, businesses and organizations that have an interest in the MVH project.
Quotes
“In the Northwest Territories, significant infrastructure projects are only feasible and effective with the support and collaboration of Indigenous governments and Indigenous organizations. The GNWT is grateful for its continued partnership with SSI for the Mackenzie Valley Highway project. Together, we will harness and exercise our combined strengths and shared interests to advance this project to foster positive outcomes for NWT

– Caroline Wawzonek, Minister of Infrastructureresidentsandcommunities.”

“”SSI has long supported the building of the MVH and looks forward to working closely with the GNWT to finally complete the highway. There will be economic benefits to the Sahtu Region, indeed to the whole NWT, replacing the winter road and the Mackenzie River barge service. With low water and climate related events impacting services, this highway will serve as a lifeline for our residents. SSI will also continue with its own efforts to promote the MVH including lobbying numerous groups, agencies and governments in both Canada and the United States to show the national defense and sovereignty benefits of the

– Charles McNeely, Chairperson of Sahtu Secretariat Incorporatedhighway.””

Previously, the GNWT and SSI signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the
Quick Facts

Advancement of the Mackenzie Valley Highway on April 10, 2019.
The MOU establishes a Steering Committee to provide direction and oversight of
activities proposed under the MOU.
Amend ed and Restated MOU
Related links

Mackenzie Valley Highway project page
document library
Mackenzie Valley Highway

For more information, contact:
INF Communications

Department of Infrastructure

Government of the Northwest Territories

INF_communications@gov.nt.ca

Orlena Modeste
Executive Director
867Sahtu-589Secretariat-4719 Incorporated

NT5