On Nov 2, 2009, Noront awarded a contract to a very reputable international engineering firm, SNC Lavelin, to do a transportation and infrastructure analysis. The terms of reference in the release were:

The study is intended to be in two phases with the first phase to be completed in the first quarter of 2010. The first phase will evaluate all options and recommend a preferred route and method of all season access into the site. The first phase will also define a work program required to minimize the transportation risks in support of a Feasibility Study. Assuming successful completion of the early phases and the subsequent field work, the Feasibility Study on Infrastructure and Transportation will be completed by the fourth quarter 2010.

With four months into the study, and a month to go in the quarter, we should be getting some info soon. Anyone going to the PDAC should ask when we can hear.