The project to improve safety and pave Tuck Inlet Road, which provides access to the community of Lax Kw'alaams near Prince Rupert, has gone to tender.

“Paving Tuck Inlet Road is an important step in ensuring safe and reliable access to the residents of Lax Kw’alaams and to encourage economic development in the area,” said Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure Todd Stone. “The Lax Kw’allams Band and the ministry signed an MOU to begin engineering work on this project last year and I know that the entire community is looking forward to seeing the paving work start.”

The Lax Kw’alaams community is accessed via ferry from Prince Rupert, which docks at Tuck Inlet. The current gravel road connecting the ferry dock with the village was last upgraded in 2006. The existing gravel surface on Tuck Inlet Road will be paved, one bridge replaced and safety improvements  - such as concrete barriers, speed reader boards and pullouts - will be made throughout the 17.5-kilometre road.

When complete, the resurfaced road will increase safety and accessibility for residents, businesses and tourists on this crucial link to the community of Lax Kw'alaams. Work on the road is expected to begin this summer.

This project is part of B.C. on the Move, the ministry’s 10-year transportation plan, to work with First Nations on projects that support economic development on their lands.