Progress Continues on Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge Replacement Project

Press Release

June 4, 2026

The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT), in partnership with the Tłı̨chǫ Government, is making steady progress on the Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge Replacement Project on Highway 3.

Construction is underway on a new bridge that will improve safety, remove current height and weight restrictions, and support reliable travel between northern communities. The new structure will be built just north of the existing bridge and will allow larger and heavier vehicles to move more easily along this key transportation corridor.

Work began in late 2025 and continues to move forward, with early construction activities completed and work now underway on the bridge foundation and structural components. The new bridge is expected to open to traffic in fall 2027, with full project completion in fall 2028.

The existing bridge remains safe and will continue to be inspected and maintained while construction is underway. Traffic will continue to move through the area, with safety measures and traffic controls in place to protect workers and travellers.

The GNWT encourages drivers to plan ahead, follow posted signage, and expect occasional delays while construction is ongoing. For the latest highway updates, visit the DriveNWT website.

Quote

“The Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge is a critical link for people, goods, and services in the Northwest Territories. I want to recognize the crews who worked through the winter to keep this project moving forward. Their work is helping to improve safety, strengthen our transportation network, and support economic growth across the North, while creating opportunities for local workers and businesses.”

– Vince McKay, Minister of Infrastructure

Quick Facts

• The new bridge will be approximately 200 metres long and will include two traffic lanes and a separate path for pedestrians and cyclists
• The Government of Canada is contributing $52.5 million to the project through the National Trade Corridors Fund
• The construction contract, valued at $120.7 million, was awarded to the Tłı̨chǫ–Kiewit General Partnership (TKGP)

Related links

• Project Webpage: Dehk’è Frank Channel Bridge Replacement
• GNWT Infrastructure Facebook Page
• Highway Conditions Map: Drive NWT

For media requests, please contact:
INF Communications
Department of Infrastructure
Government of the Northwest Territories
INF_communications@gov.nt.ca

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