Due to the critical condition of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main (BSFM) and its importance in Calgary’s drinking water system, we are reinforcing sections of the pipe that are in the most vulnerable condition, to stabilize them and reduce the chances of a break.  This work will support the BSFM to continue safely delivering our drinking water until the new parallel steel pipe is completed and can take over service from the current line.  

• Reinforcement construction continues to be on schedule.  
• Excavation continues across all work areas.
• Trench box installation around the exposed sections of pipe continues.
• Rebar installation around the exposed sections of pipe has started. 

While repair work is underway, the following road closures and detours are in effect:

• Lane reductions are in place on 16 Avenue N.W. near the Sarcee Trail interchange, with one lane open in each direction.
• The exit ramp from 16 Avenue N.W. onto Sarcee Trail and the exit off Sarcee Trail onto westbound 16 Avenue N.W. are both closed.
• 16 Avenue westbound remains open but changed lane patterns will cause traffic to move slowly.
• Drivers heading west on 16 Avenue N.W. are encouraged to plan ahead.

We will repair the identified pipe segments using a concrete reinforcement technique. This approach involves exposing the pipe through excavation, constructing an exterior reinforcing steel cage, pouring concrete around the existing pipe, and backfilling. The construction method is subject to change once the pipe is exposed.

When reinforcement work begins, residents and businesses can expect: 

• Heavy equipment and construction vehicles in the area. 
• Crews working 24/7 until reinforcements are complete. 
• Traffic detours, and temporary parking impacts. 
• Fenced-off areas for equipment and supplies. 
• Noise, dust, and vibrations.
• Noise from hydrovac activities. 
• Potential temporary water and gas services for some residents.

The City cannot guarantee that the pipe will not break unexpectedly again before or after the reinforcement work takes place. If another break occurs before the planned reinforcements, crews will move immediately to complete portions of the reinforcement work at the same time as the break repair. Preparations are underway to allow crews to mobilize as quickly as possible if this occurs. 

We understand that these reinforcements will have impacts on the community with construction happening 24/7 during this time. We are working with those directly impacted and more information on construction will continued to be shared with the area.

Residents and businesses in Bowness, Montgomery and Parkdale, along the feeder main alignment, should anticipate more mail drop updates, construction notices and info sessions. Residents and businesses that have not already done so, can sign up to receive email updates.

All updates will also be shared on this page.

Plans are moving forward rapidly and we are committed to enhancing our outreach as we gain a better understanding of community impacts. We appreciate everyone’s patience at this time.