Building Inuvik

Inuvik is said to be the first planned town in the Northwest Territories, since all the streets and building lots were mapped out before construction began.

Inuvialuit and Gwich'in from nearby areas were employed during the construction of Inuvik. For some, it was their first time working for wages rather than working for themselves as hunters and trappers.

Buildings in Inuvik are constructed on piles so that they do not disturb the permafrost that lies only a short distance below the surface. Steam is used to melt a hole for the piles, which are usually made from spruce logs.

Water and sewer services cannot be buried in the ground, because of permafrost. Instead, they run above ground through insulated tunnels called utilidors.