The initial phase of the Bearspaw south feeder main replacement project has concluded, and progress remains ahead of schedule, as reported by the City of Calgary. There is a possibility of outdoor water restrictions in September for Calgarians, with more stringent restrictions anticipated for October. Mayor Jeromy Farkas mandated an accelerated timeline for the replacement project to be finished by the end of 2026 following a second major pipe rupture earlier this year.
Construction activities began in January with microtunnelling work in stage A to install the new feeder main between the Shaganappi Pump Station and 73rd Street N.W. The city’s chief operating officer of the water utility, Michael Thompson, emphasized the importance of readiness for any potential pipe failures that could prompt water restrictions.
The microtunnelling process caused minimal disruption above ground, with crews installing a new concrete pipe before placing the steel feeder main inside. In June, stage B commenced, involving open-cut construction along 34th Avenue N.W. in Bowness. Over half of stage B has been completed, with more than a kilometer of feeder main already in place.
Water restrictions and traffic interruptions are expected in October when the Bearspaw south feeder main is temporarily shut down to connect the replacement pipe. Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions are projected to be implemented in mid-October, with residents urged to conserve water both indoors and outdoors during this period.
Testing and commissioning of the new feeder main are scheduled for mid-November, with no restrictions anticipated at that time. Construction activities along Parkdale Boulevard and Memorial Drive N.W. are expected to cause traffic disruptions and parking limitations while the feeder main remains out of service.
Overall, vigilance and preparedness are emphasized by Thompson to address any potential pipe failures and subsequent water restrictions.