N.W.T. MLAs question Mackenzie bridge costs

As construction is set to begin this summer on a bridge across the Mackenzie River, some Northwest Territories MLAs say they're questioning the wisdom of the territorial government's decision to move forward without federal funding.

The kilometre-long bridge at Fort Providence, which will take about two years to build, will provide a permanent link between the territory and the rest of Canada once it is completed.

While the territorial government is still hoping Ottawa will pay for part of the bridge costs, Premier Joe Handley said it will start the project without the federal commitment. Handley cited rising steel and labour costs for the need to start soon.

"If we had done it five years ago, it would have been $75 [million], $80 million. Doing it today, we're looking at $130 [million], around that neighbourhood," Handley said, adding that costs could rise up to $160 million if the government waits another year.

"It's going up all the time. And we need it."

The territory will borrow almost all of that money, which has some MLAs suggesting it could pose too much of a financial risk.

"I know some of my colleagues are saying, 'build the bridge.' Well, build the bridge? We haven't seen the business case, we haven't seen the numbers and I'd like to know how we can build a $130-million bridge with our eyes closed," Kam Lake MLA Dave Ramsay said. "The feds aren't coming up with any money."

The territorial government has formed a partnership with the Deh Cho Bridge Corp. to complete the project. The corporation will contribute several million dollars and collect toll revenues to recoup its investment.

Currently, crossing the Mackenzie River at Fort Providenceisdone by ferry from late spring to early winter and by an ice bridge inthe winter months.