The Canadian Government and the Northwest Territories will offer funding of C$20m ($15.07m) for the construction of a 14km all-season access road from Norman Wells to Canyon Creek.

The project would also include construction of 5km of road surrounding Canyon Creek.

The funding for the road improvements would be beneficial for the people living in this region as it would improve travel times for commuters and the transport of goods and equipment throughout the area, paving the way for new business development opportunities.

Member of Parliament for the Northwest Territories Michael McLeod said: "Safe and efficient roadways are crucial to encouraging economic activity, facilitating trade, and creating good paying, middle class jobs for the people across the Northwest Territories and here, in Norman Wells.

“This new access road and related road improvements will help the residents in the Sahtu region access employment opportunities, build new construction skills, and get to and from traditional hunting and fishing locations, while meeting the transportation needs of area businesses.

“The Government of Canada will continue to work in close partnership with the Territory to ensure that we make smart infrastructure investments that help grow the economy and address local infrastructure priorities.”

The improved road network would also enhance the reliability for shipments of essential supplies, and easier access to traditional hunting and fishing areas.

Minister of Transportation Northwest Territories Wally Schumann said: “Making sure Northerners have access to good, middle class jobs needs to be a priority for our governments.

"Making sure Northerners have access to good, middle class jobs needs to be a priority for our governments."

"Delivering on that will require a clear vision for the North and a commitment to invest in the NWT and its people.

“Investments in transportation infrastructure, like the Canyon Creek all-season access road, are one part of how the governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories can work together to support economic sustainability and job creation in Northern communities and in the Sahtu Region specifically.”

Hamlet of Tulita and Town of Norman Wells residents, businesses and contractors will be benefited from the related business and employment opportunities.