Calgary officials warn that water restrictions and potential disruptions could persist for up to two years due to the ongoing replacement of the damaged Bearspaw South feeder main.
Repairs to Bearspaw South Feeder Main Expected Soon
Calgary city officials report that repairs to the damaged Bearspaw South feeder main could be finished as early as next week. However, they warn residents that the aging pipe is still vulnerable. Water restrictions may return with little notice.
Work crews have removed the broken section of pipe along 16 Avenue NW. They are now inspecting the remaining line using robotic technology and manual assessments. If no further issues are found, the current repair should be completed early next week.
Mayor’s Warning on Future Risks
Despite the progress, Mayor Jeromy Farkas cautioned that the feeder main cannot be permanently stabilized until it is fully replaced. This replacement process is expected to take up to two years.
“Until we have built the accelerated replacement line, our new reality will be potentially waking up tomorrow to this pipe breaking,” Farkas said. “We cannot fix this permanently, which is why we are accelerating as fast as humanly possible.”
Farkas advised Calgarians to prepare for possible renewed water restrictions during the replacement period. An independent panel report on the failure is expected to be presented to the council tomorrow, with immediate action recommendations anticipated.
Infrastructure Services Response
Infrastructure Services General Manager Michael Thompson echoed these concerns. He acknowledged that the update is “not what anyone wants to hear.”
“While planning for urgent reinforcement work, we will be looking for every possible opportunity to advance the Bearspaw South Feeder Main Replacement project to get us out of this vulnerable situation,” Thompson said.
He noted that additional shutdowns of the feeder main may be necessary in the spring and fall to complete reinforcement work. Summer water demand could also lead to further restrictions.
Boil-Water Advisory Lifted
The complete replacement of the pipe is expected to take up to two years. Meanwhile, the boil-water advisory affecting several northwest Calgary communities has been lifted after testing confirmed the water meets provincial safety standards.
| Event | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Repairs Completion | Next Week | Expected |
| Independent Panel Report | Tomorrow | Pending |
| Boil-Water Advisory | Lifted | Confirmed Safe |
