The City of Yellownife is reminding residents of the impact to traffic that will come over the summer due to the construction plans of the new Aquatic Centre.
Construction on the new Aquatic Centre along Franklin Avenue has been progressing at a steady pace since the end of winter. However, from June 12th to July 2nd, traffic along the site will be redirected to the northwest side of the road. The speed limit will also be reduced to 30km/h to allow for all drivers to continue to safely use the road. Left handed turns will not be allowed at any point along the construction zone, which will cause limited access to the Curling Rink, current Aquatic Centre, and the construction site itself. Staff at the construction site will be keeping an eye on traffic during the busiest hours of the day. Flag-bearers will be used to direct traffic if things become too congested.
Access to Forest Drive from Franklin Avenue will not be possible during this time. Only local traffic will be able to access Forest Drive, and only from the west side of Taylor Road.
The next phase of construction will begin on July 3rd, and last until July 16th. That phase will see the opposite side of Franklin Avenue closed. More information will be released as the date grows closer.
Plans for the new Aquatic Centre date back to November of 2016, when the City accepted a federal grant of $12.9 million for its construction. Clark Builders were hired for the project, and construction officially began in November of 2021.
