Ontario Construction News staff writer
Provincial officials joined regional First Nations chiefs last week to mark the completion of critical highway infrastructure upgrades in the Greenstone area, located about 300 kilometres northeast of Thunder Bay.
The improvements, which strengthen road connections to Ontario’s provincial highway network, will benefit First Nations communities while supporting the province’s efforts to unlock the economic potential of Ontario’s critical minerals, in partnership with Indigenous communities.
“Along with upgrading infrastructure, we’re also investing in skills development programs for Indigenous community members in the mining and construction sectors, advancing meaningful and lasting economic reconciliation with First Nations,” said Premier Doug Ford.
Since the signing of Letters of Confirmation with the Kenogamisis Investment Corporation and Minodahmun Development LP in June 2024, Ontario has continued to invest in building a competitive economic environment in the Greenstone area. This includes funding for road upgrades, community infrastructure, and skills training programs in resource development.
Progress includes:
- Highway Infrastructure: Seven culverts have been successfully replaced on Highway 584 in 2024, with three more scheduled for replacement on Highway 11 in 2025. An additional 26 culverts will be replaced along Highway 584 during the 2025-2026 construction seasons, with pavement rehabilitation of Highway 584 planned for 2027.
- Migizi Plaza Rest Stop: Ontario is investing $2 million to support the construction and maintenance of truck parking, washroom facilities, and other amenities at the Migizi Plaza Rest Stop, which will serve First Nations members, tourists, and residents. Site preparation for transport truck parking is underway, with construction set to begin in 2025.
- Greenstone Gold Mine Assay Laboratory: A $2 million investment from the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) will support the purchase and renovation of the Greenstone Gold Mine Assay Laboratory in Geraldton, creating long-term employment opportunities for First Nations communities involved in the project.
- Indigenous Workforce Development Program: Forty-five participants have enrolled in the Indigenous Workforce Development Program, which is operated by Minodahmun Development LP and funded by the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development. Participants are receiving mining-related pre-trades training to equip them for jobs in the region’s mineral development sector.
Kenogamisis Investment GP Corporation is a joint venture created by Animbiigoo Zaagi’igan Anishinaabek, Aroland First Nation, Ginoogaming First Nation, and Long Lake 58 First Nation to maximize Indigenous participation in development projects. Minodahmun Development LP, a 100 per cent First Nation-owned partnership, ensures that development projects benefit First Nations while growing the local economy.