Ottawa inks $242M infrastructure deal with Nunavut

The Nunavut government is getting $242 million from the federal government for roads, bridges and other infrastructure work, federal Environment Minister John Baird announced Friday.

Baird, appearing on behalf of Transport Minister Lawrence Cannon, signed a framework agreement in Iqaluit Friday afternoon with Nunavut Premier Paul Okalik and Community and Government Services Minister Levinia Brown.

The funding, to span over the next seven years, comes partly from the federal government's Building Canada long-term infrastructure fund. Ottawa will also use gas tax revenue as part of the funding.

"Each of our communities and residents will experience real tangible benefits," Okalik said. "We look forward to working with our federal partners and local communities to make this plan work for Nunavut."

Both governments will work together identify and address priorities, such water, airports, roads and marine facilities.

"There's really needed infrastructure in Nunavut that has been long overdue," said Brown. "Some of this money is going to be put to good use now and we'll see the results from that."

Baird announced another $1.6 million to build a 100-metre bridge over the Sylvia Grinnell River in Iqaluit. That funding came from the Defence and Indian and Northern Affairs departments.