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# Reconstruction of Hamilton Boulevard extension begins

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Long-awaited repairs to an approximately 500-metre section of the Hamilton Boulevard extension will begin on August 18 and take approximately four weeks to complete.

Ice-rich permafrost under this section of the Hamilton Boulevard extension has been monitored for a number of years. Repairs can be made now that the permafrost has thawed.

Cobalt Construction Inc. of Whitehorse was awarded the contract for the work, which includes reconstruction of the subsurface and surface of the road, as well as installation of new guardrails and replacement of light standards. During that time, drivers can expect detours, traffic control and possible delays while the work is done.

> We are pleased that we can now make repairs to this section of Hamilton Boulevard to provide a safer and smoother ride for road users. We thank residents for their patience over the past few years. This is one of several projects underway in Whitehorse and throughout the territory to improve road safety. As this work proceeds, travellers are reminded to drive carefully, pay attention to signs and flagging crews, slow down around construction zones, and give heavy duty equipment adequate space.

> For a number of years, this high-traffic area has been an issue for motorists. I would like to acknowledge the efforts made by Minister Richard Mostyn for these much-needed improvements over the years. We are thankful for these repairs and for the Government of Yukon’s respectful engagement during this lengthy process. Thank you for your patience while the contractor undertakes this work.

Quick facts

- South Hamilton Boulevard in Whitehorse is the alternate connector road that connects Copper Ridge, Ingram and Lobird Trailer Park to the south Alaska Highway.

- The condition of permafrost along the Hamilton Boulevard stretch has been monitored since 2013. A geotechnical study of the road recommended that the affected area be surfaced with gravel only to allow the ice to melt completely. An assessment of annual surveys of road elevations showed that in 2019, the settlement of the road had slowed considerably. It indicated that permafrost had thawed from beneath the road embankment to the point where reconstruction is now possible.

Media contact

Matthew Cameron
Cabinet Communications
867-393-7136
matthew.cameron@gov.yk.ca

Bonnie Venton Ross
Communications, Community Services
867-332-5513
bonnie.ventonross@gov.yk.ca

Myles Dolphin
Manager, Strategic Communications
City of Whitehorse
867-689-0515
myles.dolphin@whitehorse.ca

News release #:
20-230
Related information:
City of Whitehorse construction notice