The federal government is providing $1.4 million for the start of the Berens River Bridge in the Far North.
Kenora MP Bob Nault says the first phase of the funding involves the design of the bridge.
Nault says they have “a strong commitment and agreement with all the First Nations in the area. It’s being led by Sandy Lake and Pikangikum and that project is getting very close.”
He stresses the bridge is in the works and he’s hoping for construction to start this year.
Nault says the bridge will significantly increase access to seven remote Northern Ontario First Nations communities.
The project also includes all-season road upgrades connecting Sandy Lake, Keewaywin, Deer Lake, North Spirit Lake, McDowell Lake, Poplar Hill, Pikangikum and Red Lake.
Red Lake Mayor Fred Mota says the project is part of a collaborative effort in working towards meaningful and sustainable development in our region.
This is great news for our First Nations neighbours #berensbridge #allseasonroad #connectingcommunities pic.twitter.com/BR5vnaP69h
— Red Lake (@redlakeontario) September 5, 2019