YELLOWKNIFE (June 3, 2015) – Minister of Transportation Tom Beaulieu today released Connecting Us: Northwest Territories Transportation Strategy 2015-2040, which will guide development of the transportation system for the next 25 years. The strategy sets the path forward to improve the territory’s integrated air, road, rail and marine system led by a vision of “Northerners connected to opportunities”.   

“The strategy reflects the priorities of residents and all users of the NWT transportation system,” said Minister Beaulieu, referencing the Department of Transportation’s public engagement efforts over the last year, including an online survey, interviews with Members of the Legislative Assembly, stakeholders,  Aboriginal leaders and public meetings in every region of the territory. 

“What we heard led to the development of long term action under three key strategic objectives: Strengthening Connections, Capturing Opportunities and Embracing Innovation,” said the Minister. 

Two documents that will guide the implementation of the strategy will follow. The first Transportation Report Card will be completed in the fall of 2015 and will include statistics to provide a benchmark to measure success over the long term. The first 4-year action plan will be implemented over the life of the 18th Assembly. These documents will be reviewed and updated every four years to guide and measure progress toward achieving the long term vision for the transportation system outlined in Connecting Us. 

Strategic investments in the territory’s transportation infrastructure is a key part of the Government of the Northwest Territories plan for achieving the 17th Legislative Assembly’s vision of a unified, environmentally sustainable, and prosperous Northwest Territories. 

Media inquiries:
Roya Grinsted
Cabinet Communications
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: 867-669-2308
Email: roya_grinsted@gov.nt.ca