Leaders in Ontario’s far north intensify efforts for a permanent road to the James Bay Coast following the latest-ever opening of winter roads. This long-discussed proposal rises in priority as communities face growing isolation challenges.
Proposed Route and Engineering Challenges
The preferred route spans a 192-kilometer gravel road north from Fraserdale to Moosonee, followed by a 333-kilometer stretch west to Attawapiskat. Crossing expansive muskeg swamps between Moose Factory and Attawapiskat requires innovative solutions like “floating pavement” technology, tested in Ireland and Russia.
Lawrence Martin, director of lands and resources for the Mushkegowuk Council, highlights skepticism from elders. “The elders kind of chuckled and said ‘You can’t do that. Even over time that road is going to start to sink.’ So there’s some skepticism about that type of construction through the muskeg,” Martin states. He advocates finding natural ridges to connect ridge-to-ridge for stability.
High Costs and Infrastructure Needs
The plan includes over 100 culverts and up to 70 bridges, driving cost estimates to $5.1 billion. Shorter ice road seasons increase reliance on summer barge transport. Last year, officials prioritized fuel deliveries over building materials, exacerbating housing shortages in communities like Kashechewan and Attawapiskat.
“There’s going to be a definite shortage of housing materials, and communities have major housing needs,” Martin explains. “It just makes life even harder for the people. We lack jobs and industry in these First Nations communities.”
Youth Demands and Economic Pressures
During a recent tour of Mushkegowuk communities with Grand Chief Leo Friday, Martin heard clear messages from youth: “We want jobs. We’re tired of living in these conditions, where we’re isolated, facing housing problems that cause mental health issues.”
The mandate remains urgent: escape isolation through greater involvement in mining, resource development, and potential hydro dams on the Moose River, Albany River, and others.
Local Business Impacts
Sri Gangadharan, owner of Two Bay Enterprises in Moosonee, struggles to fill positions at his gas station, convenience store, and garage. A permanent road would boost employment and slash living costs, as supplies currently arrive by train.
“Freight costs hit customers hard. A loaf of bread sells for $2.25 down south but $5 here,” Gangadharan notes. Despite years of discussion, he questions if the road will materialize.
Path Forward
Next steps involve community consultations in coming months, funded by $260,000 contributions from member First Nations. Chiefs from the seven nations will then vote on advancing to detailed design, a phase potentially lasting seven years.
“There’s a lot of work still to be done,” Martin affirms.
