Quebec announces $90-million investment for seven Nunavik airports
The Quebec government has announced $89,742,000 to go towards improving airports in Nunavik in the northern part of the province.
Nunavik’s villages are mostly fly-in and the airports are the communities’ main lifeline.
“In the Nunavik region, airports play a crucial role in the health and safety of local residents,” Denis Lamothe, the MLA for the Ungava district, of which Nunavik is part, said on Tuesday. “That’s why we’re investing in roads and airports in Ungava.”
The airports in Puvirnituq and Salluit will both see major runway renovations.
The Puvirnituq runway project will be alloted $25-50 million.
The Salluit project will receive $10-25 million.
Salluit will also receive additional funding to replace culverts on the airport access road, with Puvirnituq receiving additional funding to repair its airport fencing.
Seven Nunavik communities to receive funding
Quebec Transport Minister Geneviève Guilbault said investments in infrastructure help lay the groundwork for further economic development.
“These investments help create quality jobs and promote Quebec’s economic vitality.”
Other projects announced include: $1-5 million for work on Kangiqsujuaq’s airport and the replacement of navigation aids at the location; $10-25 million to demolish the hanger at Kuujjuarapik airport; $5-10 million for runway and access road renovations at Akulivik airport; $1-5 million for bridge renovation on the airport access road in Tasiujaq, and $5-10 for video surveillance and improved electronic systems at Umiujaq airport.
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Related stories from around the North:
Canada: Northern airlines in Ottawa to talk wildfires, climate change and infrastructure, CBC News
Finland: Record December passenger numbers for airports in Arctic Finland, Eye on the Arctic
Norway: Air France launches flights to three destinations above the Arctic Circle, The Independent Barents Observer
Russia: Putin in Arkhangelsk—Arctic industry and infrastructure on agenda, The Independent Barents Observer
