YELLOWKNIFE, N.W.T. — The successful conclusion of reconstruction and paving on Hwy. 3 will culminate on Aug. 12 with a celebration to mark the historic completion of the highway that stretches from the NWT-Alberta border to Hay River and Yellowknife.

The finished project is the final chapter in a broader plan that began to take shape on Hwy. 1 at the NWT-Alberta border in 1983. Transportation Minister Michael McLeod noted the project also has national significance because Hwy. 3 was the last unpaved portion of the 27,000 kilometres of highway in the core National Highway System.

“The Government of the Northwest Territories invested over $200 million in the past 23 years to bring a paved highway all the way from the border to Yellowknife,” stated McLeod. “We can all be proud of the fact we now have a wider, straighter and smoother highway that is safer for everyone who travels it.”

“Paving the Way: A Celebration of Completion” will take place at an off-road site located at Kilometre 310, about 20 kilometres from Yellowknife.

There will also be prize draws and give-aways, children’s activities and displays of historic photos and highway construction equipment once used to build the highway.

“The department has organized a family event with activities intended to attract residents and visitors of all ages,” said the minister. “On this occasion, we will commemorate and celebrate a truly historic milestone for transportation in the Northwest Territories.”

For safety reasons, the speed limit on the highway near the event will be reduced to 30 km/h for that occasion. Alternatively a rain date is set for Aug. 13.