Calgary Infrastructure Project May Temporarily Displace Three Residential Properties
As Calgary moves forward with its critical microtunneling initiative to replace the aging Bearspaw South feeder main, three homes located near the construction staging area may require temporary relocation for the duration of the project. The affected properties are situated at the terminus of Montgomery View N.W., a quiet cul-de-sac positioned near the intersection of Bowness Road and the Trans-Canada Highway.
Affected Properties and Municipal Ownership
The city of Calgary owns two of the three dwellings in question, both of which are currently leased to tenants. One of these municipally owned properties houses a residential tenant, while the other accommodates a commercial tenant. City officials have confirmed they are actively engaging with these tenants to ensure they fully comprehend the upcoming construction activities and potential disruptions.
Michael Thompson, the city's general manager of infrastructure services, emphasized during a recent briefing that "all options will be on the table as we talk to those residences" regarding potential accommodations and support measures.
Compensation Considerations for Private Homeowner
The third affected property presents a different scenario, as it remains under private ownership. According to city communications, the municipal government is exploring compensation options for this homeowner, which may include provisions for hotel accommodation throughout the construction period. A city spokesperson clarified in follow-up correspondence that "conversations are ongoing" with the property owner to determine the most appropriate solution.
The construction staging site, located just east of the Bow River and directly across from Edworthy Park, has already begun mobilizing equipment in preparation for pipe installation scheduled to commence in February. Access to the immediate area has been restricted to non-residents, with construction crews controlling roadway entry.
Project Background and Urgency
This infrastructure replacement project has been prioritized following two significant ruptures of the Bearspaw South feeder main within a span of less than two years. Both previous failures resulted in the implementation of Stage 4 water restrictions across Calgary, measures that persisted for multiple weeks and significantly impacted residents and businesses.
The city has established an ambitious timeline to complete the replacement pipeline within the current calendar year. The project will be executed in two distinct phases, with Stage A focusing on the section extending from the Shaganappi Pump Station to 73rd Street N.W. on the western bank of the Bow River.
Microtunneling Methodology
The construction approach involves sophisticated microtunneling techniques that include:
- Drilling two vertical shafts approximately thirty feet below ground level
- Utilizing a specialized jacking frame and tunnel boring machine to create lateral passage between the shafts
- Carefully lowering pipe sections into the shafts for piece-by-piece installation
This method minimizes surface disruption while ensuring the installation of a durable replacement for the critical water infrastructure component that serves numerous Calgary communities.
