Nova Minerals Advises Permitting for the West Susitna Access Road to the Estelle Project Site has been Submitted
Nova Minerals (NASDAQ: NVA) announced that the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) has submitted a permit application for the West Susitna Access Road, a crucial infrastructure project supporting the Estelle Project. The proposed 78.5-mile all-weather road will connect Alexander Creek to the Whiskey Bravo airstrip, with permitting expected during 2025-2026.
The project has received strong backing from government officials, including Governor Mike Dunleavy, and will complement a separate 22-mile road extension by the Alaska Department of Transportation, scheduled for construction in late 2025. The Governor has requested expedited permitting and priority status for the project, citing its importance to Alaska's economic development and national security.
The road will follow a public-private partnership model similar to AIDEA's successful Delong Mountain Transportation System, aiming to enhance access for local communities while supporting resource development in the region.
Nova Minerals (NASDAQ: NVA) ha annunciato che l'Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) ha presentato una domanda di permesso per la West Susitna Access Road, un progetto infrastrutturale fondamentale a supporto del Progetto Estelle. La proposta prevede una strada di 78,5 miglia percorribile in tutte le condizioni meteorologiche che collegherà Alexander Creek all'aerodromo Whiskey Bravo, con il rilascio dei permessi previsto tra il 2025 e il 2026.
Il progetto ha ottenuto un forte sostegno da parte delle autorità governative, incluso il Governatore Mike Dunleavy, e completerà un'estensione separata di 22 miglia a cura del Dipartimento dei Trasporti dell'Alaska, la cui costruzione è prevista per la fine del 2025. Il Governatore ha richiesto un'accelerazione nelle autorizzazioni e uno status prioritario per il progetto, sottolineandone l'importanza per lo sviluppo economico dell'Alaska e la sicurezza nazionale.
La strada seguirà un modello di partenariato pubblico-privato simile al sistema di trasporto Delong Mountain di AIDEA, con l'obiettivo di migliorare l'accesso per le comunità locali e supportare lo sviluppo delle risorse nella regione.
Nova Minerals (NASDAQ: NVA) anunció que la Autoridad de Desarrollo Industrial y Exportación de Alaska (AIDEA) ha presentado una solicitud de permiso para la Carretera de Acceso West Susitna, un proyecto de infraestructura crucial que apoya el Proyecto Estelle. La propuesta consiste en una carretera de 78.5 millas para todo tipo de clima que conectará Alexander Creek con la pista aérea Whiskey Bravo, con la obtención de permisos prevista para 2025-2026.
El proyecto cuenta con un fuerte respaldo de funcionarios gubernamentales, incluido el gobernador Mike Dunleavy, y complementará una extensión separada de 22 millas por parte del Departamento de Transporte de Alaska, cuya construcción está programada para finales de 2025. El gobernador ha solicitado una tramitación acelerada y prioridad para el proyecto, destacando su importancia para el desarrollo económico de Alaska y la seguridad nacional.
La carretera seguirá un modelo de asociación público-privada similar al exitoso Sistema de Transporte Delong Mountain de AIDEA, con el objetivo de mejorar el acceso a las comunidades locales y apoyar el desarrollo de recursos en la región.
노바 미네랄스(NASDAQ: NVA)는 알래스카 산업개발 및 수출청(AIDEA)이 웨스트 수시트나 접근 도로에 대한 허가 신청서를 제출했다고 발표했습니다. 이 도로는 에스텔 프로젝트를 지원하는 중요한 인프라 사업으로, 제안된 78.5마일의 전천후 도로가 알렉산더 크릭과 위스키 브라보 비행장을 연결하며, 허가 절차는 2025년에서 2026년 사이에 진행될 예정입니다.
이 프로젝트는 마이크 던리비 주지사를 포함한 정부 관계자들의 강력한 지지를 받고 있으며, 알래스카 교통부가 추진 중인 별도의 22마일 도로 연장 공사와 함께 2025년 말에 착공될 예정입니다. 주지사는 이 사업의 알래스카 경제 발전과 국가 안보에 대한 중요성을 강조하며 허가 절차의 신속 처리와 우선 순위 지정을 요청했습니다.
이 도로는 AIDEA의 성공적인 델롱 마운틴 교통 시스템과 유사한 공공-민간 파트너십 모델을 따르며, 지역 사회의 접근성을 향상시키고 자원 개발을 지원하는 것을 목표로 합니다.
Nova Minerals (NASDAQ : NVA) a annoncé que l'Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) a déposé une demande de permis pour la West Susitna Access Road, un projet d'infrastructure crucial soutenant le projet Estelle. La route proposée, longue de 78,5 miles et praticable par tous les temps, reliera Alexander Creek à la piste d'atterrissage Whiskey Bravo, avec une obtention des permis prévue entre 2025 et 2026.
Le projet bénéficie d'un fort soutien des autorités gouvernementales, y compris du gouverneur Mike Dunleavy, et viendra compléter une extension séparée de 22 miles réalisée par le Département des Transports de l'Alaska, dont la construction est prévue pour fin 2025. Le gouverneur a demandé une accélération des procédures de permis et un statut prioritaire pour le projet, soulignant son importance pour le développement économique de l'Alaska et la sécurité nationale.
La route suivra un modèle de partenariat public-privé similaire au système de transport Delong Mountain d'AIDEA, visant à améliorer l'accès des communautés locales tout en soutenant le développement des ressources dans la région.
Nova Minerals (NASDAQ: NVA) gab bekannt, dass die Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) einen Genehmigungsantrag für die West Susitna Access Road eingereicht hat, ein wichtiges Infrastrukturprojekt zur Unterstützung des Estelle-Projekts. Die vorgeschlagene 78,5 Meilen lange Ganzjahresstraße wird Alexander Creek mit dem Whiskey Bravo Flugplatz verbinden, wobei die Genehmigungen für 2025-2026 erwartet werden.
Das Projekt erhält starke Unterstützung von Regierungsbeamten, darunter Gouverneur Mike Dunleavy, und ergänzt eine separate 22 Meilen lange Straßenerweiterung des Alaska Department of Transportation, deren Bau Ende 2025 geplant ist. Der Gouverneur hat eine beschleunigte Genehmigung und Prioritätsstatus für das Projekt beantragt und betont dessen Bedeutung für die wirtschaftliche Entwicklung Alaskas und die nationale Sicherheit.
Die Straße wird einem öffentlich-privaten Partnerschaftsmodell folgen, ähnlich dem erfolgreichen Delong Mountain Transportation System von AIDEA, mit dem Ziel, den Zugang für lokale Gemeinden zu verbessern und die Ressourcennutzung in der Region zu unterstützen.
- Project has received strong government support and priority status for expedited permitting
- Road infrastructure expected to substantially reduce mining costs in the West Susitna region
- Public-private partnership model follows successful precedent of AIDEA's Delong Mountain Transportation System
- Project will improve year-round access to currently difficult-to-reach areas
- Extended timeline with permitting process spanning 2025-2026
- Project still requires various regulatory approvals and public comment periods
Insights
Permit submission for access road marks critical infrastructure milestone that could significantly reduce Estelle Project's future mining costs.
The permit application submission for the West Susitna Access Road represents a significant infrastructure milestone for Nova Minerals' Estelle Project. This 78.5-mile all-weather road would provide year-round access to currently isolated areas, including Nova's mineral exploration site.
The proposed infrastructure follows a two-part development approach: AIDEA's 78.5-mile road segment combined with Alaska DOT's separate 22-mile connection that includes a major Susitna River bridge. The DOT segment is scheduled to begin construction in late 2025 with completion targeted for 2026/2027.
What makes this development particularly noteworthy is the robust governmental support at multiple levels. The Governor has requested expedition under two Executive Orders (14153 and 14241), potentially fast-tracking approvals as a "priority project" with national security implications. This high-level backing substantially increases the likelihood of regulatory approval.
From a logistics and economics perspective, this infrastructure would fundamentally transform the project economics by replacing expensive air transport with conventional road access. For mining operations in remote Alaska, transportation costs represent a major component of capital and operating expenses. Year-round road access would significantly reduce these costs while improving operational reliability and flexibility.
The project's financing structure appears to follow AIDEA's proven public-private partnership model previously used for the Red Dog Mine's transportation system, suggesting a sustainable funding approach that has succeeded in similar Alaska resource development projects.
Beyond direct mining benefits, the infrastructure creates valuable optionality for future development across the entire West Susitna region, potentially enhancing the strategic value of Nova's land position beyond current project parameters.
Anchorage Alaska, July 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nova Minerals Limited (“Nova” or the “Company”) (NASDAQ: NVA) (ASX: NVA) (FRA: QM3) ) is pleased to announced that the Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) has submitted its application to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the permitting of the West Susitna Access Road. The permitting process for the all-weather public and industrial road will occur in 2025-2026 and further strengthens Nova’s momentum as it advances the Estelle Project.
The proposed 78.5-mile long road will begin approximately 1.4 miles west of Alexander Creek and extend to the Whiskey Bravo airstrip and mineral exploration camp (Figure 1). Following the Skwentna River’s northern edge before crossing to its southern side, the route is designed to allow year-round public access to lands that are currently difficult to reach except by air or water.
As a company deeply committed to advancing responsible exploration and unlocking Alaska’s critical mineral potential, Nova Minerals sees this project as essential infrastructure for future development in the region. With this road in place, not only will essential logistics and access be significantly improved, but new opportunities are expected to also arise for Alaskan families, local businesses, and resource developers alike.
Highlights
- The Alaska Industrial Development and Export Authority (AIDEA) has submitted its application to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the permitting of the West Susitna Access Road, which will occur in 2025/2026.
- The West Susitna Access Road is a critical infrastructure project, consisting of a 78.5-mile all-weather road for both public and industrial use (Figure 1). It is intended to support the Estelle Project and the surrounding region and is expected to lower barriers to resource development, substantially reduce the cost of mining in the West Susitna region, and enhance local access and economic opportunities.
- The road will connect to a separate road project being led by the Alaska Department of Transportation & Public Facilities (ADOT&PF) that will extend 22-miles of new public and industry road surface west from the existing road system and will include a large bridge across the Susitna River.
- The ADOT&PF project is scheduled to begin construction in late 2025 and to be fully constructed by 2026/2027.
- Pursuant to Executive Order 14153, the Governor of Alaska has requested that the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works render “all assistance” required to obtain the necessary approvals for the project.
- Pursuant to Executive Order 14241, the Governor has also requested that the project be deemed a “priority project” and placed on an expediated permitting schedule, as well as emergency approval pursuant to section 2 of Executive Order 14156, as the project is important to Alaska, the Nation, and the future of the Nation’s energy dominance and national security.
Nova CEO, Mr Christopher Gerteisen commented: “The West Susitna Access Road represents a critical step forward for the Mat-Su region, Alaska, and beyond. This transformative infrastructure project is expected to not only unlock significant economic opportunities by facilitating resource development, but also enhance local access and create jobs in the process. We are proud to support AIDEA and the state's ongoing efforts to build a stronger, more sustainable future through infrastructure development. The state’s commitment to expanding access to Alaska’s vast public lands aligns well with our shared vision for long-term economic growth and national security. We are excited to see the potential positive impact this project could have on both the local community and the state's broader economic landscape.”
West Susitna Road Welcomed by Government Officials and Local Stakeholders
Gov. Mike Dunleavy welcomed the advancement of the project, calling it a strategic move to boost economic development in the region: “AIDEA’s West Susitna Road holds significant value for Alaskans, especially local residents seeking better access to hunting, fishing, recreation, and potential opportunities in mining, processing, and manufacturing.”
Funding for the road is expected to follow a public-private partnership model similar to AIDEA’s Delong Mountain Transportation System, which supports the Red Dog Mine. That approach has previously yielded long-term economic gains through infrastructure that serves both public and private needs.
Support for the project spans political and community lines. Matanuska-Susitna Borough Mayor Edna DeVries called the road “a strategic investment in our region’s future,” emphasizing its potential to provide long-overdue access for families and businesses. “Reliable road access means a stronger local economy and more opportunities for recreation and responsible development,” DeVries said.
State lawmakers have also backed the project as a critical step in unlocking Alaska’s resource potential. “The West Susitna Access is an exciting opportunity not only to potentially unlock some of Alaska’s extraordinary resource potential, but to provide all Alaskans new access to the recreation and outdoor opportunities found in the West Su,” said Rep. Kevin McCabe.
Sen. Mike Shower highlighted the national security and economic benefits of increased access to minerals like copper, gold, and antimony. “Responsible resource development is critical for Alaska, the United States and our allies,” he said, noting the road’s potential role in supporting jobs and technology supply chains.
Public land access advocates have also weighed in. Rod Arno, public policy director for the Alaska Outdoor Council, said the group “remains in strong support of the state creating more overland access to public lands/waters for all Alaskans.” He added that resource roads have historically become gateways to outdoor recreation and that the council will monitor the project’s progress to ensure renewable resource protections remain strong.
Local business owners echoed that enthusiasm. Cindi Hermans, president of Friends of West Susitna and owner of the Skwentna Roadhouse, called the permit application a long-awaited milestone: “It has been a long time coming, and we are eager to see the positive impact it will have on our community and surrounding areas.”
Nova Minerals stands firmly behind the West Susitna Access Project and looks forward to working alongside stakeholders to realize the shared benefits this infrastructure will bring to all Alaskans.
The permit application marks a key regulatory step in the project’s development and begins a review process that includes federal agency input and opportunities for public comment. The project reflects Alaska’s constitutional mandate to develop state lands for maximum public benefit, balancing access, economic development, and conservation.
To see the full press release from AIDEA on the permit application please click the link below
https://www.aidea.org/Portals/0/PressReleases/AIDEA%20Press%20Release%2007-25
Watch the AIDEA West Susitna Access video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WZRiDq8c9Os
Figure 1. Proposed route for the West Susitna Access Road. Source AIDEA.
Qualified Persons
Vannu Khounphakdee, Professional Geologist and member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists contracted by Nova Minerals to provide geologic consulting services. Mr. Khounphakdee holds a Master of Science in Mine Geology and Engineering. He is a qualified person with at least 5 years’ experience with this type of project. By reason of education, affiliation with a professional association, and past relevant work experience, Mr. Khounphakdee fulfills the requirements of Qualified Person (QP) for the purposes of SEC Regulation SK-1300 for data QA/QC checks relevant to this announcement.
Hans Hoffman is a State of Alaska Certified Professional Geologist contracted by Nova Minerals to provide geologic consulting services. Mr. Hoffman is a member of the American Institute of Professional Geologists and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Geological Engineering with a double major in Geology and Geophysics. He is a qualified person with at least 5 years of experience with these types of projects. By reason of education, affiliation with a professional association, and past relevant work experience, Mr. Hoffman fulfills the requirements of Qualified Person (QP) for the purposes of SEC Regulation SK-1300 for the technical information presented in this announcement.
Christopher Gerteisen, Chief Executive Officer of Nova Minerals, is a Professional Geologist and member of Australian Institute of Geoscientists, and has supervised the preparation of this news release and has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information contained herein. Mr. Gerteisen is a "qualified person" for the purposes of SEC Regulation S-K 1300.
About Nova Minerals Limited
Nova Minerals Limited is a Gold, Antimony and Critical Minerals exploration and development company focused on advancing the Estelle Project, comprised of 514 km2 of State of Alaska mining claims, which contains multiple mining complexes across a 35 km long mineralized corridor of over 20 advanced Gold and Antimony prospects, including two already defined multi-million ounce resources, and several drill ready Antimony prospects with massive outcropping stibnite vein systems observed at surface. The
Further discussion and analysis of the Estelle Project is available through the interactive Vrify 3D animations, presentations, and videos, all available on the Company’s website. www.novaminerals.com.au
Forward Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” that are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, contained in this press release are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release may be identified by the use of words such as “anticipate,” “believe,” “contemplate,” “could,” “estimate,” “expect,” “intend,” “seek,” “may,” “might,” “plan,” “potential,” “predict,” “project,” “target,” “aim,” “should,” "will” “would,” or the negative of these words or other similar expressions, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. Forward-looking statements are based on Nova Minerals Limited’s current expectations and are subject to inherent uncertainties, risks and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions management believes to be reasonable at the time such statements are made, including but not limited to, continued exploration activities, Gold and other metal prices, the estimation of initial and sustaining capital requirements, the estimation of labor costs, the estimation of mineral reserves and resources, assumptions with respect to currency fluctuations, the timing and amount of future exploration and development expenditures, receipt of required regulatory approvals, the availability of necessary financing for the Project, the availability of funding sources, the availability of collaborative relationships, permitting and such other assumptions and factors as set out herein. Apparent inconsistencies in the figures shown in the MRE are due to rounding.
Forward-looking information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information, including but not limited to: risks related to changes in Gold prices; sources and cost of power and water for the Project; the estimation of initial capital requirements; the lack of historical operations; the estimation of labor costs; general global markets and economic conditions; risks associated with exploration of mineral deposits; the estimation of initial targeted mineral resource tonnage and grade for the Project; risks associated with uninsurable risks arising during the course of exploration; risks associated with currency fluctuations; environmental risks; competition faced in securing experienced personnel; access to adequate infrastructure to support exploration activities; risks associated with changes in the mining regulatory regime governing the Company and the Project; completion of the environmental assessment process; risks related to regulatory and permitting delays; risks related to potential conflicts of interest; the reliance on key personnel; financing, capitalization and liquidity risks including the risk that the financing necessary to fund continued exploration and development.
These and other risks and uncertainties are described more fully in the section titled “Risk Factors” in the Nova Minerals Limited’s Registration Statement on Form F-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 3, 2025. Forward-looking statements contained in this announcement are made as of this date, and Nova Minerals Limited undertakes no duty to update such information except as required under applicable law.
For Additional Information Please Contact
Craig Bentley
Director of Finance & Compliance & Investor Relations
E: craig@novaminerals.com.au
M: +61 414 714 196
FAQ
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