Technical details
Client
Cree Development Corporation
Dates

2021-2022

Missions
Study a potential extension of the CDC’s network in Northern Quebec
Location
Canada
Activity
Feasibility Study on Infrastructure, Railway Systems, Transportation Planning, Operations & Maintenance, Project Management

The Vision Eeyou Istchee Consortium, which consists of SYSTRA, Stantec and Desfor, has been mandated by the Cree Development Corporation (CDC) to carry out the feasibility study for Phase 1 of the La Grande Alliance’s infrastructure projects in Northern Quebec.

The study is part of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Cree-Quebec Sustainable Infrastructure Development Program in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay Region.

The Consortium conducts a study to evaluate the feasibility of the following infrastructure, in close collaboration with local communities and in accordance with sustainable development objectives:

  • Upgrades to the access roads linking the Cree communities of Waskaganish, Eastmain and Wemindji to the Billy-Diamond Highway;
  • Upgrade to the access road between the Cree community of Nemaska and the Route du Nord;
  • A railway line following, as much as possible, the Billy-Diamond Highway between the town of Matagami and KM257 of the Highway;
  • The recommissioning of the railway line between Grevet (Lebel-sur-Quévillon) and Chapais;
  • Trans-shipment areas along the Billy-Diamond Highway and the Grevet-Chapais railway corridors, specifically one located at KM257.

Six Tasks are required from the joint venture under this mandate:

  • Task 1 – Background research, strategy planning and project management which includes requirements for high level of interaction with Cree communities / Community Information Officers (CIOs) through Liaison Officer(s) appointed by the Consultant.

SYSTRA is providing the deputy project manager and is involved in the consultation with CIOs:

  • Task 2 Market Survey: SYSTRA is leading this task which consists in identifying potential users and revenues streams for the identified projects;
  • Task 3 Technical Feasibility Study: SYSTRA is leading the rail component which consists in assessing the technical feasibility of the proposed rail projects. It includes the inspection of the railway line between Grevet (Lebel-sur-Quévillon) and Chapais;
  • Task 4 Socio-Environmental Feasibility Study;
  • Task 5 Contingency/Mitigation Strategy and Planning;
  • Task 6 – Final Report and Cost Evaluations (+/- 35 %).

TAKE A LOOK AT THIS VIDEO TO LEARN MORE

Only available in French.

The Project in pictures