Feds fund recreation infrastructure and fire prevention projects across N.W.T.

YELLOWKNIFE, N.W.T. – The federal government is spending $26 million for 10 recreational infrastructure projects across the Northwest Territories.

Part of the funding, a government release stated, will allow the Northwest Territories Association of Communities and the Government of the Northwest Territories to work with small and remote communities to create fire breaks and implement fire fuel reduction strategies for over 1,200 hectares of land.

“Once complete, this work will lessen the risk of wildland fires across the territory and will offer tens of thousands of residents improved protection from the devastating impacts of wildfires, safeguarding their homes, businesses, livelihoods and the environment,” the release said.

Additional funding will support nine recreational infrastructure projects across N.W.T. including funding for Nahanni Bute supporting development of a modern stage for live performances.

Approximately $2.2 million of funding will support design and construction of a community hall for cultural gatherings in the Hamlet of Paulatuk. Fort Smith’s Riverside Park and Lookout will receive a $738,750 update and the Hay River Metis Trades, Cultural and Traditional Learning Facility will see federal funding of $675,000 for construction of a 4,800-square-foot community facility that will support training opportunities and deliver a variety of traditional and cultural skills development programs.

Government of Canada funding for the projects comes from the Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund (DMAF), the Community, Culture and Recreation Infrastructure Stream (CCRIS) of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, and the Canada Community-Building Fund (CCBF).

The Government of Canada is investing $4,517,848 through the CCRIS for nine recreational infrastructure projects, with an additional $80,000 through the CCBF for the Nahanni Butte Performance stage project. Through DMAF, the government is investing $19,985,264 for the territory-wide wildfire protection project.