Calgary's Water Crisis: Pipe Failures Ignite Outrage!

CALGARY — Crews are making steady progress at the site of a major water main break along 16 Avenue N.W., according to a City of Calgary update. As of January 3, 2025, workers have pumped out water, excavated the area, and are in the process of removing the damaged pipe section. This break on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, east of Sarcee Trail, has resulted in road closures in both directions, affecting traffic flow and water usage across the city.

The Deeper Context

This recent incident highlights ongoing infrastructure challenges faced by Calgary. The Bearspaw South Feeder Main, which experienced a similar rupture in June 2024, is part of a larger issue involving 239 deteriorated pipe segments identified last year. Of these, 23 were deemed urgent and repaired, yet the failure of the main continues to disrupt city services. Mayor Jeromy Farkas has emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of this essential water supply line, stating it has "reached the end of its reliable life." The city is currently under Stage 4 water restrictions, and the break has strained the supply, with usage reaching 493 million litres. A panel report investigating the cause of the December 2025 break is expected by January 13, 2026, as officials expedite plans for a full replacement.

The Critics & Costs

The repeated failures of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main have sparked criticism over the city's infrastructure management and the effectiveness of previous repairs. Questions remain unanswered regarding why acoustic fibre optic monitoring did not detect the vulnerabilities post-2024 repairs. Residents and businesses along 16 Avenue N.W. face significant disruptions, with detours impacting daily commutes and economic activities. The financial implications of a complete overhaul are substantial, yet essential to prevent future incidents. Mayor Farkas's comments underline the urgency, as funding gaps for infrastructure upgrades continue to be a contentious issue within city council.

Looking forward, the City of Calgary is accelerating replacement plans for the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. As investigations continue, residents are urged to conserve water and stay informed through official updates. The city aims to address these critical infrastructure challenges to ensure reliable services and minimize future disruptions.