The Kahkewistahaw First Nation is receiving a loan for its Kahkewistahaw Landing Infrastructure urban reserve project.  The Chief of the Kahkewistahaw First Nation says they secured a $15.4-million loan from the Canada Infrastructure Bank, which carries significance.

Evan Taypotat says this process started in April 2017, when they purchased the 40-acres of land at the corner of Claypool Drive and Airport Drive in Saskatoon to build a multi-use gathering place. He says they are the only First Nation in Canada to apply for, and be accepted to receive, this type of loan which will pave the way to putting in gas line, sewer line, roads, and green space.

Chief Taypotat hopes what they’re doing inspires other First Nations to achieve sovereignty through economic development.  He says this is just one example of working towards reconciliation that works in everyone’s favour.

The area will be home to a gas station, a medical centre providing culturally sensitive social services, commercial and office space, a conference centre, a hotel, and a new FSIN building.

First Nation is located in southern Saskatchewan near Broadview. (CKRM)