Planning a complete, connected neighborhood that delivers housing, green spaces, and long-term community value

Klondike Highway Subdivision Master Plan

Like many northern communities, Dawson City is feeling the impacts of limited housing supply on its ability to grow and sustain its population. The City of Dawson and Government of Yukon identified a parcel of land south of the historic townsite at the bottom of Dome Road as a key opportunity for residential growth. They set out to create a long‑term vision to support new housing while respecting Dawson’s character, complex site conditions, and the interests of surrounding neighborhoods. To help navigate this process, the Government of Yukon engaged our team to lead the preparation of a comprehensive master plan for the Klondike Highway Subdivision.

The parcel varies significantly in terrain, access, and servicing potential, and historical placer mining has altered conditions. Since development will unfold over 5 to 10 years, it required a plan that can guide long-term decisions while remaining flexible to changing needs.

Building on preliminary feasibility assessments and development scenarios, our multidisciplinary team of planners, engineers, flood specialists, and designers worked closely with Yukon officials, City employees, Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in representatives, and the public to develop the master plan. We supported meaningful public engagement, using plain language to communicate site opportunities and constraints.

Collaboration with Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in was integral from the outset. Our team strove to understand their preferences, priorities, and concerns. The resulting master plan protects access to culturally significant lands and guides development to avoid negative effects on adjacent neighborhoods. Following approval of the Klondike Highway Subdivision Master Plan, we provided a detailed design of the first phase including siting analysis, needs review, architectural design, and land engineering for a new recreation center.

When built out, this subdivision will deliver much‑needed housing while creating a complete, connected neighborhood that reflects Dawson City’s character. Shaped by collaboration, meaningful engagement, and long‑term partnership with Tr’ondëk Hwëch’in, the master plan provides a clear roadmap for growth that works for the whole community.