The Taku River Tlingit First Nation undertook planning for a proposed access road connecting the Five Mile Point Reserve with the surrounding road network, intended primarily to provide emergency egress for residents in the event of wildfire or other emergencies. Given the challenging terrain, environmental constraints, and significant investment associated with the project, the planning process also provided an opportunity to consider how the road could support broader community priorities for the Reserve.

Working with Colliers Project Leaders, Re:Public developed and led a community engagement process to understand what members of the Nation wanted the future road to accomplish beyond emergency access. Through interviews with Nation departments, a community workshop, roundtable discussions, and participatory mapping, the process explored priorities related to safety, the environment, recreation, housing, economic development, and future community needs. The resulting report translated these priorities into design and construction considerations to inform the Nation’s future decision-making, procurement, and implementation of the road.