Inadequate infrastructure remains one of the most persistent barriers to northern development. Aging airports, unreliable road systems, fragile power networks, and limited broadband capacity hinder community resilience and obstruct both public and private sector investment.
From a business perspective, infrastructure gaps increase operational costs and reduce economic viability. For communities, these deficiencies limit access to health care, education, and essential services. At the national level, they weaken Canada’s Arctic sovereignty posture.
This editorial makes the case for a multi-decade, multi-government strategy focused on resilient, climate-adapted infrastructure. Such investment is not optional—it is foundational for national security, community stability, and northern economic transformation.
A modern Arctic demands modern infrastructure, built with both climate realities and Indigenous collaboration at the forefront.
