Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and the Government of Yukon begin master planning process for new Dawson subdivision

Press Release

February 25, 2026

This is a joint news release between the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government and the Government of Yukon.

The Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government and the Government of Yukon have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to begin a joint master planning process for four adjacent land parcels in Dawson.

This partnership is the first of its kind between the two governments and emphasizes the equal weight of Yukon First Nations Traditional Knowledge and western planning approaches. The agreement sets out a collaborative approach for planning Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Settlement Land parcels C-13B and C-87FS and adjoining Government of Yukon-owned land. Because these lands are next to each other, the two governments have agreed to work on a single plan for coordinated and compatible development.

Both governments have committed to a planning approach that respects different governance systems and incorporates both Dënezhu and western knowledge. Public engagement will be an important part of the planning process, with opportunities for City of Dawson residents and Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Citizens to add input and share perspectives as the planning process progresses.

Dawson is experiencing high growth, and this joint initiative reflects a shared commitment by Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and the Government of Yukon to collaborate and plan for future land use.

We are excited to begin planning work on an equal and cooperative footing with our counterparts in the Yukon government. As with all planning and stewardship decisions for Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Traditional Territory, this process will be led by our Citizens and will consider the needs and best interests of current and future generations.

Hähkè Darren Taylor, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in

The work to create this plan is an important step in supporting Dawson’s future needs. My thanks to the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in as we continue to build a strong relationship and jointly support a vision for Dawson.

Minister of Community Services Cory Bellmore

Quick facts

• The completed master plan is expected to address land use options, conceptual road and lot layouts, site amenities, development phasing, preliminary engineering and cost estimates, land governance and servicing considerations and regulatory requirements. The plan will also outline next steps to support future implementation.
• A planning consultant will be selected through the Government of Yukon’s procurement process, and the work will be jointly directed by the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in and the Government of Yukon, with the City of Dawson serving as part of an advisory committee. The cost of the master planning process will be shared equally by both governments.
• The Memorandum of Understanding came into effect upon signing in October 2025 and will remain in place until the master planning work is completed.

Media contact

Tim Kucharuk
Press Secretary, Cabinet Communications
867-335-2419
tim.kucharuk@yukon.ca

Natalie Van Sterthem
Communications, Community Services
867-333-9159
natalie.vansterthem@yukon.ca

Elaine Corden
Director of Communications and Policy
Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in
(604) 345-2140
communications.director@trondek.ca

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