Behchokǫ̀, NT (February 3, 2021) – The Tłı̨chǫ Chiefs hosted a meeting in Behchokǫ̀ on February 1, 2021. Representatives from the Tłı̨chǫ Government, Community Government of Behchokǫ̀, Community Government of Whatì, Tłı̨chǫ Community Services Agency, Government of the Northwest Territories (including Monfwi MLA), City of Yellowknife, RCMP, transport companies, mining sector, retail companies, and telecommunications sector joined the meeting in person and virtually. Tłı̨chǫ chiefs invited participants to share their own experiences and perspectives, identify gaps and challenges, and propose ideas and possible solutions towards improved safety on Highway #3.
In 2020 alone, there were at least six fatalities on the stretch of the highway between Edzo and Yellowknife. During each winter road season, the highway carries in excess of 6000 truck loads. Many people who work in the Tłı̨chǫ region travel and commute daily on the highway. It is also a lifeline that connects Yellowknife with the rest of the North, as well as the South. Safe driving on Highway #3 impacts many Northerners and industries.
Many issues were identified during the meeting and great ideas were shared by all. Some of the outcomes of the meeting included commitments to:
- Explore telecommunications solutions along Highway #3 where there is currently no cellular phone coverage
- Take preventative measures by building education and awareness campaigns about safe driving rules and practices
- Improve signage along Highway #3
- Ongoing collaboration, communications and partnerships to improve highway safety
Masì to everyone that attended the meeting, and shared information and ideas. The meeting is just the beginning of more conversations and collaboration on highway safety. The Tłı̨chǫ Government looks forward to continuing to work together with our partners to decrease accidents on highway #3 and improve driving safety.
Tłı̨chǫ Government would like to remind all highway users to practice safe highway driving. Please remember to:
- Give yourself lots of time to get from one destination to another
- Only travel during safe weather conditions
- Follow speed limits and other highway signs and rules
- Keep good distances between yourself and other vehicles
- Avoid stopping on the side of the highway except at designated turnouts
- Stay vigilant for pedestrians, wildlife, and other vehicles
- Make sure vehicles are in good driving order with working head and tail lights
- Travel with emergency kits
- Use a safety vest and/or other easy-to-see warning equipment (pylons) to warn drivers if you are stopped and have exited your vehicles
Contact:
Celine Zoe
Project Advisor
Tłı̨chǫ Government
[email protected]
