Yellowknife — The federal government is investing $150,000 to support public transit studies in three communities. Announced by Minister Gary Anandasangaree, these projects will support the Nahanni Butte First Nation, Yellowknives Dene First Nation, and the Hay River Métis Government in establishing public transit options for their residents.
All three communities are using the funding to conduct feasibility studies to determine the needs and requirements for their respective communities. The Yellowknives Dene First Nation and the Hay River Metis Government are conducting transit assessments, laying the groundwork for future transportation projects and more efficient ways to connect to Yellowknife. The Nahanni Butte First Nation received funding for a study, public consultations, and field research to better understand transit needs in its community.
These public transit initiatives will help make Indigenous communities more inclusive and enhance the safety and quality of life for users of these services, including Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people.
“Better and reliable public transportation infrastructure in the Northwest Territories will ensure that communities are safer, more inclusive, and more sustainable. Supporting Indigenous-led, evidence-based solutions will help improve the safety of Indigenous women, girls, Two-Spirit, and gender-diverse people and assist them in travelling safely in their communities and to other parts of the territory. These studies and assessments are critical to determine the best ways of connecting residents to schools, jobs, and medical services through safer modes of travel.” – Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, on behalf of Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities