Water restrictions take effect Nov. 4 as Bearspaw South Feeder Main enters final steps of construction
Calgary is one step closer to a stronger and more reliable water system as crews prepare to connect the new Bearspaw South Feeder Main into the existing water system, beginning November 4. While this work is underway, city-wide Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation will be needed for approximately four weeks to reduce demand while the water supply is limited.
This connection marks one of the final steps of installation for the new feeder main. Once connected, crews will begin the final commissioning work required to bring the new pipe into service by the end of this year.
"The November connection is a significant phase of the project because it is when the new feeder main will be integrated into Calgary’s existing water system," said Michael Thompson, Chief Operating Officer - Water. "Over the past several months, our focus has been on advancing construction while securing the specialized materials needed to complete this work. With the majority of those materials now on-site in Calgary and the rest of the materials scheduled to arrive on time, we're positioned to move into this final phase and deliver on a key investment in Calgary’s water infrastructure that will help reduce the risk of future major disruptions."
Water restrictions required during connection work
To safely complete the connection of the new pipe, the existing Bearspaw South Feeder Main must be temporarily shut down. During this period, the amount of water that can be distributed across the city will be significantly reduced to 500 million litres a day. We need to stay below this number and ensure we have sufficient water for everyone, including firefighting, if needed.
As a result, city-wide Stage 4 outdoor water restrictions and indoor water conservation measures will be required beginning Nov. 4 for approximately four weeks.
No outdoor water use will be permitted during this time and we’re asking all Calgarians and our neighbours in Airdrie, Chestermere, Strathmore and Tsuut’ina Nation to save water indoors by taking the following actions:
- Run dishwashers and laundry only when full.
- Flush toilets only when needed.
- Take shorter showers. Aim for three minutes.
"We know Calgarians have already done a tremendous job reducing water use when needed," said Thompson. "The actions people take during this period will help us complete this work safely and successfully while protecting water services across the city.”
Once the new feeder main has been connected, crews will focus on preparing the new line for service. This includes disinfecting the pipe, filling it with water and completing the water quality testing required before the new feeder main can be brought into operation. This process will take approximately two to three weeks.
The project remains on track for the new feeder main to be fully operational by the end of the year.