Stimulus Funds Support Local Road Infrastructure in Yukon

Funding will create jobs, boost local economy

Whitehorse, Yukon, February 4, 2010 – The Honourable Senator Daniel Lang and the Honourable Archie Lang, Yukon Minister of Highways and Public Works, Community Services, and Energy, Mines and Resources, today announced joint funding of $600,000 for local road infrastructure improvements in the territory.

“Our government has created an Economic Action Plan that is stimulating our economy and creating jobs to support Canadian families,” said Senator Lang. “We are working well with our provincial, territorial and municipal colleagues to tender contracts in time for the next construction season. At the same time, we are planning for deficit reduction once the economy has recovered, and we are building a strong foundation for job creation and economic growth.”

“Investing in Infrastructure is a key priority for Yukon government,” said Minister Lang. “This funding partnership will provide new opportunities for Yukon citizens while enhancing the quality of life and safety for the residents living along these roads.”

Funding will support repairs and upgrades to three roadways in the territory – Annie Lake Road, Fish Lake Road and Jackson Lake Road. The projects will upgrade existing road infrastructure to meet a safer and maintainable standard which will enhance economic life in the region.

Improvements to Annie Lake Road will benefit many residents who access their properties from the roadway. Upgrades will also benefit mining activity beyond the highway and will provide improved access to the Mount Lorne Hamlet Community centre situated on Annie Lake Road.

The Fish Lake and Jackson Lake Road project will improve access to residents as well as improve access to the hinterland, which attracts many residents and tourists seeking opportunities to hike, canoe, kayak, and fish.

Canada is contributing a total of $300,000 to support these projects, with a matching contribution from the Yukon.

Federal financial support comes from the $4-billion, Infrastructure Stimulus Fund, which provides funding to provincial, territorial, municipal and community construction-ready infrastructure projects that can be completed by March 31, 2011.

To date, the governments of Canada and Yukon have committed nearly $7.6 million under the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund for 12 additional projects in the Territory including upgrades to the Guild Hall Theatre in Whitehorse, rehabilitation to Deadman Creek, Albert Creek and Nordenskiold Bridges, and upgrades to the Top of the World Highway.

Canada and the Yukon are working together to create jobs and boost the economy, while making significant investments that help communities improve their infrastructure. Both governments have agreed to work together to ensure that these funds are delivered quickly and efficiently so that construction can begin as soon as possible.

To learn more about Canada’s Economic Action Plan, visit www.actionplan.gc.ca.

Contacts:

James Kusie
Office of Canada’s Transport and Infrastructure Minister
613-991-0700

Infrastructure Canada
613-948-1148

Doris Wurfbaum
Communications Officer
Highways and Public Works
867-393-7193

Roxanne Vallevand
Cabinet Communications
Government of Yukon
867-633-7949