Minister of Highways and Public Works Nils Clarke has issued the following statement:
“For over 50 years, the George Black Ferry has been more than just a way to cross the Yukon River in Dawson City – it’s been a lifeline for residents, businesses and visitors and a proud part of the community’s history.
“As we reflect on the ongoing operation of the George Black Ferry, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the dedicated efforts behind the scenes.
“Thanks to our skilled crews, ferry operations ran smoothly throughout the 2024 season, which officially closed on October 15, 2024.
“Each year, our team works to ensure the vessel is safely removed from service before freeze-up to prevent damage and maintain the safety of both crew and passengers.
“The George Black Ferry typically launches for the season by the May long weekend and operates until Thanksgiving. We coordinate closely with the Canada Border Services Agency to align the ferry’s launch with the seasonal opening of the Little Gold Border Crossing, scheduled for May 16 this year.
“Currently, our crews are undergoing a significant amount of preparation to get the ferry ready for the upcoming season. This includes onboarding and training staff, painting and cleaning the vessel, conducting thorough mechanical reviews and an inspection by Transport Canada to ensure federal compliance. Our crews also perform critical emergency drills and review river conditions to ensure the ferry can launch safely.
“While this kind of regular maintenance has extended the ferry’s service life, we know it’s time to look ahead and plan for the future to make sure this essential service continues for many years to come.
“After extensive analysis and meaningful public input, our government is taking the next step and moving forward with replacing the George Black Ferry.
“I am pleased to share that this year’s budget, subject to legislative approval, includes an initial $100,000 to advance the planning and future replacement of the George Black Ferry.
“This is not just about replacing an aging ferry – it’s about building a stronger, more resilient future for Dawson City and the entire region.
“Our commitment is clear: the new ferry will prioritize reliability, sustainability, and efficiency while respecting the rich history of river crossings in Dawson.
“Our government will soon issue a Request for Proposals for the planning study that will guide the replacement of the George Black Ferry. This study will include planning for permanent concrete landings that will support safer and more reliable service for years to come.
“This project has been factored into the Five-year Capital Plan under the Transportation budget.
“Over the next two years, we will focus on design and planning studies for the ferry replacement, and the replacement itself is set for fiscal years 2027–28 and 2028–29.
“Our government is committed to environmental responsibility. As we move through the planning phase, we will collect environmental data, including fish and hydraulics studies, to ensure we continue to protect the water and the land throughout the project. We will complete all necessary submissions to the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Board, as well as consultation before we proceed with implementation.
“I want to close by recognizing the important partnerships that have supported this work.
“I am proud of our strong working relationship with the Tr'ondëk Hwëch'in Government and the City of Dawson, and I look forward to continuing our discussions throughout this project.
“I sincerely thank the people of Dawson, the Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in Government, and the City of Dawson for their continued input throughout this process.
“Together, we are laying the groundwork for a stronger and more connected future, while honouring the history and spirit of Dawson’s iconic ferry crossings.”
Laura Seeley
Cabinet Communications
867-332-7627
[email protected]