The Northwest Territories government has decided to include an additional segment of the Mackenzie Valley Highway in an ongoing environmental assessment. The current assessment, overseen by the Mackenzie Valley Environmental Impact Review Board, initially focused on the planned stretch linking Wrigley and Norman Wells. The new addition involves a corridor connecting Norman Wells to the Dempster Highway.
Officials clarified that this extension aims to streamline the assessment process and does not exempt the project from thorough environmental scrutiny or construction approval. The Review Board conducts comprehensive evaluations to determine the potential significant adverse impacts on the environment or public concerns associated with the development.
Upon completion of the assessment, the Review Board will provide recommendations to the territorial government. These suggestions may include allowing the project to proceed under existing regulations, proceeding with additional mitigating measures, or rejecting the project altogether.
Caroline Wawzonek, the minister overseeing strategic infrastructure, energy, and supply chains, emphasized the national importance of the highway project, stating the need for preparedness to seize opportunities promptly. She expressed confidence that this decision would facilitate a more cohesive and expedited progression of the project.
The initiative was previously referred to the federal government’s Major Projects Office in March. However, Ottawa recently halted the project, citing the need to control wildfires in the region before any construction activities can commence.