For many years the Tłı̨chǫ Investment Corporation has been constructing the community winter road to Whatì, Gamèti, and Wekweètì.
This year the focus was on starting early by clearing some snow on Marion Lake in mid-December, which allowed Tłı̨chǫ Engineering & Environmental Services to get ahead of the schedule.
This year Whatì opened right on schedule, with Gamèti opening a few days early. At the rate things are progressing, Wekweètì should open a few days early as well.
The weather has been cooperative for most of the winter, with only a couple of cold snaps slowing things down. Subcontracting to Rowe’s Construction has been a big help as well since they have newer equipment to move quickly through the bigger portages and longer stretches of lakes.
Every year there are a couple of improvements that are made and putting a newer snowcat into Gamèti this winter will help us over the next several years.
There are always many steps to ensure a safe working environment while keeping the environment protected. Drip trays to fuel containment to safe camps are all part of the many details that are necessary for the environment and the staff.
There was a serious incident during the construction near Mooselake where a snowcat went through the ice and into the water just as the Gamèti portion was being completed. Luckily it did not sink too far, though it reminds everyone of the dangers involved in this work. Nothing can be taken for granted.
This time of the year everyone is looking forward to getting out on the ice, as all the communities have great access, for residents and guests. I would remind everyone to be safe driving on any ice road. Follow the speed limit and be careful on the transitions between ice and portage!
Happy driving!
Masi Cho!
