The City of Calgary has shared an encouraging update on the ongoing repairs following the catastrophic water main break that has been impacting the water supply for nearly three weeks and caused the city to declare a state of emergency.
Significant Repair Progress
Efforts are well underway to address the critical water feeder main hotspots. New pipe sections are being installed, with four out of five damaged hotspots being replaced. In the fifth location, rather than removing the damaged pipe, the existing structure is being reinforced. Over the weekend, the reinforcement work included installing steel and pouring concrete. The concrete is currently curing and will be followed by the removal of formwork and backfilling later this week.
At the other four hotspots, welding activities are progressing smoothly. Adaptors are nearly fully installed and welded, and new steel pipe segments are set to arrive today, allowing welding to the adaptors to commence by the end of the day.
Road Reopening and Traffic Updates
Repairs on the original site of the water feeder main break were completed earlier this week, enabling the re-paving of the affected road. Following a final inspection, the section of 16 Avenue N.W. between Home Road and 49 Street N.W. has reopened to traffic as of June 24, ensuring a smoother commute for residents.
Official Statements
Michael Thompson, General Manager of Infrastructure Services for the City of Calgary, reported substantial progress over the weekend. “Pipes are being welded at the sites requiring new sections, and the concrete is curing at the reinforcement site. Backfilling is scheduled to begin tomorrow at one location, with others to follow shortly.”
Non-Potable Water Options for Residents
In response to the ongoing situation, Calgary has expanded its program to provide non-potable river water free of charge at several locations, including:
- Ogden boat launch
- West Baker Park boat launch
- Bishop O’Bryne High School
- The Genesis Centre
- Ambrose University
- Spy Hill Landfill
This water is suitable for garden use and, if boiled for one minute, can be used for handwashing and cleaning. Residents are reminded to bring their own containers and to handle them safely, as city staff are not permitted to assist with loading.
Bylaw and Enforcement
Since the water main break, over 8,781 calls have been made to 311 regarding the emergency. The city urges residents to use the 311 app or Calgary.ca for service requests. Reports of water misuse have led to 2,620 calls, resulting in 17 violation tickets. Additionally, a fire ban remains in effect, with 209 calls received and 21 written warnings, 81 verbal warnings, and five violation tickets issued.
Road and Mobility
Businesses in the affected areas remain accessible, and the city encourages local shopping. However, traffic impacts will persist until repairs are completed. Current detours include:
- Reopened westbound lanes along 16 Avenue N.W. from 49 Street N.W. to Home Road
- Closed 16 Avenue N.W. in both directions from 46 Street N.W. to 45 Street N.W.
- Closed 16 Avenue N.W. in both directions from 43 Street N.W. to Bowness Road N.W.
- East/West traffic detours onto Bowness Road, with expected delays
Eastbound detours start at 46 Street to Bowness Road, re-entering 16 Avenue at the Shaganappi Trail interchange.
For further updates, residents are encouraged to monitor city communications and plan their routes accordingly to minimize disruptions.