The Government of Canada invests $405 million to advance the Mackenzie Valley Highway Project and strengthen Arctic connectivity

Safe and reliable transportation infrastructure is essential to strong, connected communities across Canada’s North and Arctic. As climate change puts increasing pressure on northern transportation systems, investments in all-season infrastructure are helping communities stay connected, while strengthening supply chains and supporting Canada’s security and sovereignty in the Arctic.

September 8, 2026    Norman Wells, Northwest Territories    Transport Canada

Safe and reliable transportation infrastructure is essential to strong, connected communities across Canada’s North and Arctic. As climate change puts increasing pressure on northern transportation systems, investments in all-season infrastructure are helping communities stay connected, while strengthening supply chains and supporting Canada’s security and sovereignty in the Arctic.

Today, the Honourable Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, and the Honourable Rebecca Alty, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, announced federal funding of $405 million through the Arctic Infrastructure Fund (AIF) to advance the proposed Mackenzie Valley Highway (MVH) Project in the Northwest Territories.

This investment represents an important step toward the long-term goal of establishing a continuous all-season transportation connection between Wrigley and Norman Wells, and connecting with the Dempster Highway south of Inuvik. By reducing reliance on seasonal transportation infrastructure, the project will make it easier and more reliable to move people, goods and essential supplies throughout the region.