PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION, Ont. — The federal government announced funding Thursday for development work for a new bridge over the Berens River near Pikangikum.
Indigenous Services Canada will provide up to $1.4 million for the design of the bridge and for road improvements, saying it will improve access to seven remote First Nations.
The announcement said the bridge will be built be in conjunction with the extension of the existing all-season road from Red Lake to the Pikangikum area, and the realignment of a winter road.
Kenora MP Bob Nault said it will provide an important connection for First Nations communities and improve their access to essential services.
"This connection will also provide new economic opportunities which will help with resource development and business creation," Nault said.
Approximately 8,100 people live in the seven First Nations the government says will benefit from the project.
A government news release quoted Sandy Lake Chief Delores Kakegamic as saying "We are all hoping the bridge comes sooner rather than later, as this is an item that's been talked about for over 10 years. We look forward to working with all seven communities to make this a reality."
In addition to Sandy Lake, communities which will benefit from the project include Pikangikum, Keewaywin, Deer Lake, North Spirit Lake, McDowell Lake and Poplar Hill First Nations.
Red Lake Mayor Fred Mota issued a statement welcoming the announcement of funding for the design of the bridge.
The statement said that when the crossing is eventually built it will bring "positive sustainable benefits from both a social and economic perspective to the Road South corridor connecting all neighbouring communities to Red Lake."
Neither the provincial nor the federal government has as yet committed funds for construction.
The proposed site for the bridge is at Dogrib Falls, about 10 kilometres southeast of Pikangikum.
