Ontario Construction News staff writer
Marten Falls First Nation and the Province of Ontario have signed a Community Partnership Agreement to advance the development of the Marten Falls Community Access Road, as the project prepares to submit its final Environmental Assessment and Impact Assessment in 2026.
The agreement also includes new investment in critical community infrastructure and economic development initiatives for Marten Falls and reaffirms a shared commitment to the Northern Road Link alongside Webequie First Nation. The projects aim to improve access to the Ring of Fire, a mineral-rich region in northern Ontario.
“This development creates immense potential — from reliable access to medical services to new opportunities for training, education, and wellness,” said Bob Baxter, councillor and Marten Falls Community Access Road senior community advisor. “For the first time, we will experience true freedom of movement, and we are looking forward to the future this opens up for our community.”
The partnership builds on collaboration between Ontario and Marten Falls First Nation dating back to 2012. It is a nation-to-nation agreement grounded in trust and mutual respect, aimed at supporting community well-being, protecting the First Nation’s way of life, and enabling economic growth through road construction and related initiatives.
“For too long, Marten Falls First Nation has faced significant challenges that make day-to-day living difficult, but we have taken matters into our own hands to transform our community,” said Chief Bruce Achneepineskum. “This road is more than infrastructure; it is a testament to our resilience and our commitment to the well-being of our people.
“We are ready to deepen our partnership with Ontario to see this profoundly important project to the finish line.”
The Marten Falls Community Access Road is expected to improve year-round access to healthcare, education, and social services. It will also reduce the cost of goods, create jobs, and foster sustainable growth, while honoring the community’s traditions and values.
The agreement ensures Marten Falls First Nation will play a key role in decision-making across all phases of the road project, from planning and development to construction, operations, and maintenance. The community-based land use planning process, guided by Elders and knowledge keepers, has informed the environmental assessment and will continue to influence project decisions.
With the road in place, Marten Falls aims to provide its members with better access to essential services and economic opportunities, laying the foundation for a more sustainable and prosperous future.
