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The B.C. government and the Squamish First Nation signed a $22.8-million agreement yesterday that allows for the widening of the Sea-to-Sky Highway through disputed territory.

With about 80 per cent of the $600-million highway expansion project completed, the deal effectively secures aboriginal permission for work that has already taken place and staves off future conflicts over previously disputed land. Negotiations for the agreement began in 2004.

The highway will be the main link between Vancouver and Whistler during the 2010 Winter Olympics, and is already the main artery between the city and the resort.

The band will receive 243 hectares of Crown land in parcels around the Sea-to-Sky region, with a 2004 appraised value of $7.2-million. The Squamish will also have the option to purchase another 243 hectares of Crown land, valued at $4.6-million, over the next decade.

As well, $9.75-million will be transferred for land acquisition and to compensate the Squamish for any direct impact the expansion causes to band property along the highway. A further $1.25-million will be for training, employment and business opportunities.

The Lil'wat First Nation, located near Whistler, signed a similar agreement in December of 2006.

The Squamish will receive 65 hectares of oceanfront property on Howe Sound close to Shannon Falls, and another site near a development in the hills above the town of Squamish, both prime development locations.

Transportation Minister Kevin Falcon signed the agreement with Squamish Chief Gibby Jacob in the main hall at the Stawamus Reserve, just outside town.

Mr. Falcon said that while both the Squamish and Lil'wat had received significant land grants in recent years that were not linked to the treaty process, the agreements were "a win for everyone in the corridor" because of economic spinoffs through the development of these lands.

"None of this [the Olympics and the highway construction]could have happened without [Squamish Nation]support, and I don't think we should ever forget that. There were some historic infringement issues where the highway was going through some of their reserves and they had never been resolved," he said.

Mr. Jacob said the agreement will allow the Squamish to become part of the region's bustling real-estate economy.

"The real things on the ground are important. To see our people out on the highway working heavy-duty equipment and as flag people and in other positions ... this will make a difference to families. It's money in the bank for our people," he said.

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