November 09, 2001

THOMPSON--As part of the provincial government's commitment to improving transportation infrastructure for northern communities, Aboriginal and Northern Affairs Minister Eric Robinson has announced that the province is proceeding on a major road upgrading project in the community of Cross Lake.

The project will see upgrades to a total of 7.7 km of road within the community boundaries, including 2.6 km of the main road system. Progress to date has seen crushing and hauling of material and installation of culverts. Current work is focussing on preparation of the 2.6 km main road system for completion next spring at which time work will commence on the remaining 5.1 km.

"I am very pleased that our government is working with the community on this project," said Robinson. "The province's Northern Development Strategy recognizes the importance of transportation infrastructure in promoting social and economic development in northern communities."

Robinson added that the project will yield benefits to the local community. "The benefits that will come from this project include increased road safety and reduced maintenance costs as well as addressing some of the dust-related concerns that have been raised by residents."

"The Cross Lake road upgrade is a project that the elected volunteers who serve the community as mayor and council have worked on for many years. Council’s vision is for a safe, healthy and sustainable community, and the road project is an important step towards achievement of that vision," said Community Administrator Darlene Beck.

Beck also expressed thanks to Robinson and the staff of Manitoba Aboriginal and Northern Affairs on behalf of Mayor Clarence Smith, Deputy Mayor Bob Smith and councillors Keith Settee, Martha McLeod and Ila McIvor. Beck went on to add that this project represents an achievement of the community leadership and Aboriginal and Northern Affairs working together for the benefit of community residents.

The minister noted that the project would also benefit the residents of Cross Lake First Nation as the planned improvements are to roads used to access the First Nation.

Cross Lake is located 300 km south of Thompson.

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