The local authorities in BehchokÇ«Ì, N.W.T., have confirmed that the federal government has given the green light for funding to improve certain underground water and sewer systems. The approved funding is designated for Rae, with a separate application for similar upgrades in Edzo awaiting approval.
Residents have long awaited this funding as many households have faced water supply issues during past winters due to frozen pipes. Chief Bertha Rabesca Zoe expressed gratitude for the federal funding, emphasizing its significant impact.
The community is particularly eager for the pending funds for Edzo, as the project there is well-advanced and ready for implementation. The majority of houses in Edzo are connected to the main water pipe system, making it a more resource-intensive endeavor.
Behchokǫ̒s senior administrative officer, Pushp Seth, mentioned that the formal agreement on the funding amount has yet to be finalized. The community applied for these funds two years ago and has continued to pursue them with support from the territorial government.
In addition to the water and sewer upgrades, the federal government has also approved funding for a water intake study and improvements in Rae. The funds are part of the Canadian Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF), established in 2024 to enhance water and solid waste systems nationwide. The Northwest Territories have been allocated $74.2 million over a decade from this fund.
To access CHIF funds, communities must commit to climate-related initiatives such as wildfire resilience and permafrost mitigation. BehchokÇ«Ì is now focused on analyzing funding needs, finalizing designs, and initiating the construction process, which is expected to commence next year and may span one to two years.