Beginning tomorrow, the legislature will consider leglisation to assume and administer the project's assets. The NWT government is also taking steps to assume the US$155.6 million debt of the Deh Cho Bridge Corporation.

The bridge will be financed by savings from the elimination of current ferry and ice bridge operations, an annual contribution from the NWT government and a toll on commercial vehicles.

"We are continuing this project with a new contractor, a new management team, and now a new relationship with the lenders," said transport minister Michael McLeod. "We are well positioned to ensure the completion of this important transportation infrastructure project, with benefits to all NWT residents."