Wade Istchenko, the Yukon Party MLA for Kluane, said Tuesday afternoon he’s pleased to see the planned upgrades to the Shakwak portion of the North Alaska Highway.

“The poor condition of the North Alaska Highway in my riding has been a major concern for my constituents for years,” he said.

“I have been asking about funding and upgrades for this important piece of infrastructure in the legislative assembly, as well as through communication with the State of Alaska,” Istchenko noted.

“I would like to thank the State of Alaska for the $42.6 million Canadian in funding as outlined in the Statewide Transportation Improvement Program.

“The program funding specifically mentions compromised segments of the Shakwak portion of the highway. It also says restoration activities will include resurfacing, sub-grade and culvert repair and ditching to return the road to design speed operation. This is exactly what the road needs.”

While the three-year funding is welcome, Istchenko added, “there are hundreds of kilometres of roads to properly maintain in Kluane country for Yukoners and visitors.

“The Alaska Highway is a vital economic corridor to Alaska for commerce, tourism, and military.

“In addition, with an unprecedented number of closures on the Haines Road this past winter, the Liberal government needs to provide the proper equipment and sufficient staff to keep it open in the coming years.”