The City of Calgary has reported significant progress in restoring a critical piece of water infrastructure, moving the Bearspaw South feeder main one step closer to full operational capacity. This follows the successful activation of an additional pump on the morning of Thursday, January 15, 2026.
Phased Repressurization Underway
City officials are emphasizing a cautious and controlled approach to bringing the massive pipe back online. The process is being conducted in deliberate phases to ensure stability and safety. Michael Thompson, General Manager of Infrastructure Services for the City of Calgary, outlined the next steps.
"Returning the Bearspaw South feeder main to service is a delicate and phased process, and as of today we have completed two phases," Thompson stated. "On Friday morning, we plan to activate the final pump to bring the feeder main to full service."
The city's plan calls for a 24-hour stabilization period after the final pump is activated before advancing to the subsequent phase of the return-to-service protocol. Crews are maintaining vigilance, carefully monitoring the increase in water flow into the pipe.
Public Urged to Maintain Water Conservation
Despite the encouraging progress, Calgary residents are being asked to keep up their efforts to reduce water usage. Sue Henry, Chief of the Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), reiterated that every saved litre makes a difference for the city's water supply.
"Every action you take to reduce water usage still has an impact on the Glenmore Reservoir," Henry emphasized.
This call to action comes as data from Wednesday, January 14, showed citywide water consumption rose to 501 million litres, exceeding the conservation target of 485 million litres. Officials recommend several immediate actions to help lower usage:
- Flushing toilets only when necessary.
- Taking shorter showers.
- Running washing machines and dishwashers only with full loads.
Traffic and Contingency Plans in Place
As work continues on the feeder main, traffic adjustments remain in effect around the repair site on 16th Avenue N.W.. Westbound traffic is open between 49th Street and Sarcee Trail N.W., but with lane restrictions. Eastbound lanes have fully reopened.
The city plans to reopen the westbound lanes in phases, starting with the inside lane, once ongoing monitoring confirms the road base is safe. Drivers are advised to heed reduced speed limits and all posted signage. Short-term closures are also anticipated in the Montgomery and Bowness communities to support the infrastructure work.
The city has also prepared for potential setbacks. Multiple contingency plans are active in case of another break in the line. Residents may notice an increased presence of fire crews, police, peace officers, and utility teams in the area as these safety and monitoring plans are implemented.
