Work restarted on the all-season road in 2026 with federal funding. The Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways built the first 14 kilometers between 2007 and 2001. (Image Credit: Submitted photo/Chelsea Jukes)

By Derek Cornet

year-round access

Northern $80 million all-season road nearly complete

Nov 12, 2026 | 4:47 PM

An all-season road connecting Hatchet Lake Denesuline First Nation to the provincial highway system year-round is entering its final stages of construction.

A federal media release issued Thursday states once complete, Highway 995 will provide year-round road access for residents, creating a reliable connection to southern Saskatchewan and major urban centres for the first time. The new highway will make it easier for residents to access healthcare services, education and training opportunities, goods and services, and employment, and therefore improving overall quality of life.

“The opening of Highway 995 is a historic milestone for our community and the result of many years of hard work, advocacy and collaboration,” Hatchet Lake Chief Bartholomew Tsannie is quoted as saying.

“For decades, we have been working toward a reliable, all-season road and today we are seeing that vision become a reality. This road will make a real difference to our communities, providing safer, more dependable access to health care, education, essential supplies and economic opportunities. It represents an important step forward for our community, strengthening our connections to the rest of the province and creating new opportunities for future generations.”

The 102-kilometre gravel highway will replace the seasonal 50-km ice road that residents have relied upon during the winter months for community resupply. For much of the year, access to and from the communities has depended on air transportation or water barge, which limits the timely delivery of essential goods.

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The road will remain under the operation of the community and contractor until construction is finished in 2027. Following completion and final inspections, the Saskatchewan Ministry of Highways will assume operation and maintenance of the road.

The project reflects more than two decades of planning, collaboration, and investment by First Nations, federal, and provincial partners to improve transportation infrastructure in northern Saskatchewan. To date, Indigenous Services Canada has invested just over $70 million, while the provincial government invested about $10.3 million.

“After years of hard work, Hatchet Lake Denesuline First Nation and Wollaston Lake are closer than ever to having year-round road access, bringing new opportunities to Saskatchewan’s northernmost communities,” said Desnethé-Missinippi-Churchill River Liberal MP Buckley Belanger.

“I’m proud of our government’s investment of over $70 million to help make Highway 995 a reality, along with another $1.3 million to upgrade the local landfill. Congratulations to Chief Bartholomew J. Tsannie and the entire community on these important milestones.”

derek.cornet@pattisonmedia.com

by Derek Cornet

Northern $80 million all-season road nearly complete

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