Update Jan. 4: Major water main break

As we turn the page on the holiday season, we thank Calgarians for their patience and diligence as crews work 24/7 to repair a major water main break.

“The first Monday of 2026 is expected to mark a return to work and school for many Calgarians. We’re continuing to remind everyone to adjust their water use habits and help conserve our water system,” says Calgary Emergency Management Agency Chief Susan Henry.

Yesterday (Jan. 3), Calgary’s water use crept up to 495 ML. This usage continues to strain our supply and is above the acceptable usage goal of 485 ML. The 485 ML threshold helps us ensure there is water available for consumption and life safety purposes like emergency response and fighting fires.

“The urgent need to reduce our water use still exists today,” says Henry. “We are still asking Calgarians to conserve water, whether that means a shorter shower or fewer flushes, there are many ways we can all ensure our water system remains stable while crews work on this critical repair.”

16 Ave N.W. reopens to eastbound traffic

Prior to the morning commute on Monday, Jan. 5, a single eastbound lane on 16 Ave N.W. will be reopened to traffic east of Sarcee Trail N.W. Access to eastbound 16 Ave N.W. from Sarcee will also be reopened during this time. Westbound traffic along 16 Avenue N.W. between 49 Street and Sarcee Trail N.W. remains closed. There will be reduced speed through the construction area.

With the opening of eastbound 16 Avenue N.W., 49 Street N.W. is returning to normal operations, meaning there will no longer be a left-hand turn from southbound 49 Street N.W. onto eastbound 16 Avenue N.W. Motorists wanting to travel eastbound on 16 Ave N.W. should use Home Road N.W.

Please observe all construction signage in the area and expect delays. Commuters are encouraged to use alternate routes, when possible, and expect delays while traveling through the area. Up to date information on traffic detours is available at calgary.ca/trafficinfo

Construction and repairs

Crews continue their repair progress at the break site along 16 Avenue N.W. We have removed water from the site and excavated the damaged section. Crews are now moving into the pipe removal phase of the repair, which is expected to begin this afternoon.

We will share updates as soon as they are available.