Calgary 16 Avenue Reopening: Roadwork Surge Sparks Relief and Frustration

CALGARY — Calgary's 16 Avenue N.W. is set for a phased reopening, with eastbound lanes fully open and westbound lanes beginning to reopen starting with the inside lane, ahead of the Wednesday morning commute on January 14, 2026. This development follows a City of Calgary announcement made on January 13, confirming the plan to ease traffic disruptions after extensive roadwork and water safety measures.

The Deeper Context

The phased reopening of 16 Avenue N.W. comes as part of an essential infrastructure update, addressing both transportation and water safety concerns. The City of Calgary has been actively working on repairs and upgrades following a rupture in the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, a critical component of the city's water distribution system. This multi-phase process includes water quality testing, with samples meeting Alberta Health Services and Alberta Environment and Protected Areas standards. The reconnection process, guided by Water Utility Bylaw 40M2006, involves carefully turning on pumps at the Bearspaw Treatment Plant to mitigate risks associated with increased water flow through the system's prestressed concrete cylinder pipes. Despite progress, the city has yet to confirm the complete reconnection of the feeder main or the final phase of road reopening as of January 14, raising concerns about potential delays and ongoing water conservation needs.

The Critics & Costs

The infrastructure updates have not been without challenges. Calgarians have expressed frustration over the prolonged road closures and the strain on daily commutes. The water conservation appeal by Calgary Emergency Management Agency Chief Susan Henry highlights the city's struggle to meet the 485-million-litre daily target, with consumption exceeding this limit, reaching 514 million litres on January 5. This overuse threatens to strain the water system further and limit emergency response capabilities. The presence of city crews and emergency responders underscores the urgency and complexity of the situation, as officials work to balance public safety with infrastructure demands.

Looking forward, Calgary residents can expect ongoing updates as the city continues its phased approach to reopening and infrastructure improvements. The focus remains on ensuring water safety and managing road traffic effectively, with additional announcements anticipated to address any unresolved issues and confirm the completion of current projects.