This is an important update for the residents of Bowness, Montgomery, and surrounding communities. Following a significant water main break discovered on June 5 on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, our city needs urgent repair to maintain the integrity of Calgary's water distribution network. This transmission line, vital for conveying water from the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant into our community, has undergone multiple emergency repairs since the initial incident.
In response to the discovery in early June, the City embarked on an extensive assessment and repair plan. Initial repairs tackled the primary break and identified "hot spots" through advanced robotic scanning of a 4.3-kilometre section of the drained pipe. Further evaluation using a PipeDiver device over the entire feeder main revealed more segments needing immediate attention to prevent future breakdowns.
Taking decisive action to mitigate risk, the City is initiating urgent repairs from August 26 through the end of September. This work is essential to address the vulnerabilities uncovered in the recent scans and ensure the reliability of our water supply. Most of the repairs will occur along 33 Avenue N.W., with additional work planned for Parkdale Blvd and 16 Avenue N.W. Specific details about the number and locations of these repairs will be shared with the community as they are finalized.
The South Bearspaw Feeder Main operation must be shut down again to facilitate critical repairs. As a result, Stage 4 Outdoor Water Restrictions will be reinstated during the repair window. We kindly ask for your cooperation in conserving water by following these guidelines:
Limit showers to three minutes.
Only flush when necessary.
Run dishwashers and laundry machines only with full loads.
Businesses are encouraged to find innovative ways to reduce their water consumption by at least 25% without closing car washes, indoor pools, arenas, and similar establishments.
These urgent repairs will employ the reinforced concrete encasement method, which involves excavating around the affected pipe, constructing an exterior steel reinforcing cage, pouring concrete, and subsequent backfilling.
I understand the inconvenience this may cause and sincerely appreciate the cooperation and water-saving efforts of all Calgarians and local businesses as we undertake these necessary repairs. But I am committed to transparency, communication, and action.
Please visit the City of Calgary's website Critical water main break (calgary.ca) and Stage 1 Outdoor Water Restrictions in effect (calgary.ca) for more information on conserving water and updates on the repair progress.
- Terry Wong, Ward 7 City Councillor
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