BLM, NPS, AIDEA Sign 50-Year Right-of-Way Permit for Ambler Road Project
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The Bureau of Land Management, National Park Service, and the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) signed agreements granting a 50-year right-of-way for the future construction of the Ambler Mining District Industrial Access Road.
“This right-of-way is the culmination of years of research, planning, and collaboration,” says AIDEA Executive Director Alan Weitzner. “The signing of this permit is a major milestone. It’s the first step in a multi-year phase of feasibility and predevelopment. The permits are for a controlled industrial access road with stipulations that protect subsistence and environmental resources.”
Ambler Metals, the joint venture operating company equally owned by Trilogy and South32 Limited, is continuing discussions with AIDEA on securing a predevelopment funding agreement for the detailed engineering work for the Ambler Road Project.
During the 2020 field season, AIDEA was able to complete initial fieldwork on the proposed Ambler Access Project route which included a LIDAR and aerial photography and cultural resource work. AIDEA anticipates carrying out more fieldwork during the 2021 season while following all mandates required by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 211-mile industrial access road is a critical piece of infrastructure for the responsible development and transportation of a variety of valuable minerals located in the Ambler Mining District, including copper, gold, silver, cobalt, zinc, and lead.
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Tony Giardini, President and CEO of Trilogy, comments, “I would like to commend AIDEA for the continued positive progress of the Ambler Access Project which is a critical link in the development of the Ambler Mining District. Despite the difficult times caused by the COVID pandemic, AIDEA and the government of Alaska have demonstrated effective leadership and we expect continued progress on the road during 2021.”
According to AIDEA Chairman Dana Pruhs, “The public’s active involvement resulted in meaningful design changes, such as additional bridge crossings and enhancements to culverts to protect fish passage. This kind of collaboration and conversation needs to continue so we can continue to enhance the project with Alaskan landowners, stakeholders, and user groups.”
“Alaskans will benefit from the Ambler Road Access project,” says Governor Mike Dunleavy. “Responsible natural resource development like the mineral rich Ambler Mining District is key to providing high wage jobs that can support Alaskans and their families. We develop our resources in Alaska more responsibly that anyone else.”
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