After a long journey and lot of elbow grease, a heritage building in Jean Marie River has seen its future secured.

The Jean Marie River First Nation (JMRFN) have received Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency funding to finish the revitalization of Louie Norwegian School; a project they have worked towards with the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment since 2013.

The school — a federal building constructed in the 1950’s — will be restored and repurposed for use as a museum, café, and arts & crafts store.

The project aims to bring new economic opportunities to the town while providing new infrastructure for sharing Jean Marie River’s rich heritage through culturally-based tourism.

The Department of ITI’s Dehcho office has provided funding to JMRFN and the Jean Marie River Development Corporation (JMRDC) since 2013 to help develop a business plan, review and design architectural and engineering elements, and fund the first phase of renovations.

With funding committed to complete the project, Department of ITI looks forward to continuing to work in partnership with the JMRFN and JMRDC to bring new life to the heritage building.

Investments in tourism are guided by the Government of the Northwest Territories mandate, which includes development of culturally-based tourism and modern tourism facilities for residents and visitors alike.