About the Project
The Redknife River Bridge project replaced the former crossing on Highway 1 with a new bridge structure. The former crossing, built in 1971, consisted of three structural plate corrugated steel pipes.
The new bridge restores year-round upstream passage for migratory fish and improves environmental conditions at the crossing. It also provides a more reliable and resilient transportation structure for people travelling along Highway 1.
The project supports the GNWTs’ ongoing efforts to maintain and modernize its bridge and culvert network, helping provide safe and efficient travel across the territory.
Timeline
- 1971: Existing culvert structure constructed
- April 2025: Construction began
- September 2026: Bridge opened to traffic
Project Funding and Partners
The Redknife River Bridge project is being delivered through a partnership between the GNWT Department of Infrastructure and De Beers Canada.
The project is delivered under a Memorandum of Understanding that outlines cost-sharing between INF and De Beers Canada. It also supports broader GNWT bridge and bridge-culvert replacement programs that prioritize the renewal of aging infrastructure across the territory.
Project Status
The new Redknife River Bridge is open to traffic. Some minor site work, including ditch contouring and reseeding of disturbed areas, continues as part of the project and is expected to be completed in 2027.
Progress to Date
The Redknife River Bridge is complete and open to traffic. The project:
- Replaces three existing culverts at the Redknife River crossing.
- Restores year-round fish passage for migratory species.
- Provides an improved riding surface for motorists.
- Provides a more resilient crossing that can better accommodate changing river conditions.
- Supports the GNWT’s ongoing work to maintain and modernize transportation infrastructure across the NWT.