Water restrictions return November 4 as Bearspaw South feeder main replacement nears finish
Calgary's major water-system project enters its final phase with a four-week shutdown beginning November 4 to connect the new pipeline, affecting Calgary and surrounding communities.
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Calgary's Bearspaw South feeder main replacement is entering its final stretch, with Stage 4 water restrictions returning November 4 for roughly four weeks as crews connect the new pipeline to the city's water system.
Mayor Jeromy Farkas and Michael Thompson, chief operating officer for water, announced the timeline Thursday during a city hall press conference. The shutdown is necessary to complete the connection before year-end.
"We promised that by the end of this calendar year, we would move heaven and earth to complete the Bearspaw South feeder main replacement," Farkas said. "And today we are on the verge of delivering on that promise."
Restrictions will prohibit outdoor water use and require residents to limit indoor use such as showers and dishwasher use—the same measures implemented in spring when Calgarians pulled together to conserve. Businesses are encouraged to follow sector-specific recommendations on the City of Calgary website. The restrictions apply to Calgary, Airdrie, Strathmore, Chestermere and Tsuut'ina Nation.
The shutdown will overlap with Calgary's Grey Cup festivities, including the 113th Grey Cup on November 15, but the city does not expect the event to significantly increase overall water demand. The city is working with event organizers to identify conservation opportunities and encourage visitors and vendors to use water responsibly.
"We're confident Calgary is well positioned to host this national event," Thompson said. Farkas pointed to Calgary's ability to host the Stampede in 2013, just weeks after devastating floods, as proof the city can rise to a challenge.
During the shutdown, crews will also complete six additional repairs on a smaller feeder main along Parkdale Boulevard and Memorial Drive N.W., involving excavation and replacement of concrete pipe sections with steel. After restrictions are lifted, commissioning the pipe to ensure it is disinfected and working should take two to three weeks. If all goes according to plan, Thompson said, the new pipe will be operational before year-end.
HighOnCity reported in June that the first stage of the Bearspaw South feeder main construction was halfway complete, and in July that the replacement line remained on schedule for December completion.
The facts
When do water restrictions return to Calgary?
Stage 4 water restrictions return November 4 for roughly four weeks as crews connect the new Bearspaw South feeder main pipeline to Calgary's water system.
Which communities are affected by the water restrictions?
The restrictions apply to Calgary, Airdrie, Strathmore, Chestermere, and Tsuut'ina Nation.
What water uses are prohibited during the restrictions?
Outdoor water use is prohibited, and residents must limit indoor use such as showers and dishwasher use.
When is the new pipeline expected to be operational?
The new Bearspaw South feeder main pipeline should be operational before year-end 2026, after commissioning takes two to three weeks following the restriction period.
