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.  

• These reinforcements are intended to support continued operation of the BSFM until the new parallel steel pipe is completed and can take over service from the current line.
• Reinforcements will target up to nine segments of the existing pipe to support operations and stability.
• Construction on the planned reinforcements is scheduled to begin March 9, 2026, and is expected to last approximately four weeks. Construction will be 24/7 during this time.
• Confirmed reinforcement work will take place for six segments of pipe along 16 Avenue N.W., near Sarcee Trail.  
• Teams are exploring three potential reinforcements at Point McKay Park, further coordination is required due to their proximity with work taking place for the Bearspaw South Feeder Main replacement. Confirmation will be provided as soon as it is available. 
• Water restrictions will be in place throughout this work, beginning March 9.
• The spring feeder main shutdown window also allows additional pieces of work to proceed:
  • Replacement of existing valves on the feeder main near the Shaganappi Pump Station which will support system reliability in the event of a future failure;
  • Inspection of the steel pipe connection to the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant, supporting ongoing condition assessment. 
  • Replacement of valves at 33rd Ave. and 89 St., which help control how water moves between the feeder main and the smaller distribution system.  

The feeder main will be taken out of service to complete construction. During this time it’s critical that all Calgarians and the surrounding regions use less water. Outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation will be in effect starting March 9. No outdoor water use will be permitted during this time.

We’re asking all Calgarians to save 25-30 litres of water per day indoors by taking the following actions:

• Keep showers short, three minutes or less.
• Flush toilets only when necessary.
• Only run dishwashers and washing machines when there is a full load.

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.

Residents or businesses with questions regarding this project, please contact us directly at BSFMProject@calgary.ca.