Construction crews working on the Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway have wrapped up another season of work, according to both the federal and territorial government.
The highlight of the third construction season was the joining of the two spreads which happened on April 7.
Progress Report: Inuvik Tuktoyaktuk Highway
When construction started in January 2014, one crew began work in Tuktoyaktuk along the Arctic coast while another crew worked on the Inuvik side.
For the first time, crews working on both sections were able to meet in the middle this spring.
Once the highway opens to the public, Canada will officially be connected from coast to coast to coast.
“I am very pleased with the successful completion of the third season of construction,” said territorial transportation minister Wally Schumann in a statement.
“This season saw several milestones completed, with highway infrastructure now connecting to the Arctic Ocean for the first time.
“I am happy to say that we remain on schedule and on budget and look forward to continuing work in the fall.”
Currently, Tuktoyaktuk is only accessible by ice road, barge and air.
The Government of the Northwest Territories is contributing $99 million to the project while the federal government will provide the remaining $200 million.
Another season of construction will start in the fall with the roadway expected to open to the public late next year. At the peak of construction season, the project employs up to 400 people.
