Canadian Companies to Build Canadian High Arctic Research Station

Canadian companies EllisDon Corporation in a joint venture with NCC Dowland Construction Ltd. will manage the construction of CHARS.

CAMBRIDGE BAY, NU, May 21, 2014 /CNW/ - As a result of an open, fair and transparent competitive process, EllisDon Corporation, in joint venture with NCC Dowland Construction Ltd., was awarded the contract to manage the construction of the Canadian High Arctic Research Station (CHARS), a world-class facility exploring the cutting-edge of Arctic science and technology issues.

In June 2013, the joint venture firm was awarded the contract to provide Advisory Services for the CHARS' design. In keeping with the terms of the contract, an amendment valued at $84,892,500 has been made that will enable the company to take on the additional role of Construction Manager, and ensure the project moves forward seamlessly into the construction phase.

Construction of CHARS is set to begin in the fall of 2014. The Station will create a world-class, welcoming environment that will respect Aboriginal peoples' knowledge and experience in the North, and will be operational by 2017 to coincide with Canada's 150^th anniversary.

CHARS is part of the government's integrated Northern Strategy and reinforces Canada's leadership in Arctic science, technology and innovation. The station will be a focal point for research, will demonstrate sovereignty over Canadian territory, will help build partnerships across the North, and will strengthen innovation and economic growth in the North.

Quick Facts

• On August 23, 2012, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced support for the construction and operation of CHARS.
• The architectural design plans for the Station were presented to Cambridge Bay community members during the Kitikmeot Trade Show in February, 2014. The plans provide an accurate depiction of what the building will look like.
• As of March 3, 2014, Dr. Martin Raillard is leading the implementation of the Science and Technology program as the Chief Scientist for CHARS.
• Construction of the Station is expected to generate up to 150 jobs, mostly locally across the North, and in more specialized sectors in other parts of Canada.
• Construction of CHARS is set to begin in the fall 2014.

Quotes 

"With a strong research presence in Canada's Arctic that serves Canada and the world, we will be able to advance Canada's knowledge of the Arctic in order to improve economic opportunities, environmental stewardship and the quality of life of Northerners and all Canadians."

The Honourable Leona Aglukkaq, Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council

Related Products

Video interview - First Look at the Blueprints for the CHARS Site

Associated Links

• February 2013 - Minister Valcourt Announces Plateau Site in Cambridge Bay as Location for Canadian High Arctic Research
• Canadian High Arctic Research Station - Website

SOURCE: Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada

Erica Meekes
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development
819-997-0002

Media Relations
Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development Canada
819-953-1160

Jennifer Kennedy
Office of the Honourable Leona Aglukkaq
819-997-1441

Marcel Poulin
Office of the Honourable Diane Finley
819-997-5421

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