Friday, February 20, 2026
The City of Calgary announced Feb.20 it is proceeding with planned reinforcements to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main (BSFM).
The work will target up to nine segments of the existing pipe to support operations and safety, a City of Calgary release said.
“Due to the critical condition of the BSFM and its importance in Calgary’s drinking water system, the city is reinforcing sections of pipe that are experiencing enhanced levels of deterioration. These reinforcements are intended to support continued operation of the BSFM until the new parallel steel pipe is completed and can take over service from the current line,” the release said.
Construction on the reinforcements is scheduled to begin on March 9 and last approximately four weeks, taking place for six segments of pipe along 16 Ave N.W. near Sarcee Trail.
“Teams are exploring three potential reinforcements at Point McKay Park, further coordination is required due to their proximity with work taking place for the Bearspaw South Feeder Main replacement. Confirmation will be provided as soon as it is available,” the release stated.
Repair of the identified pipe segments using a concrete reinforcement technique which invloves exposing the pipe through excavation, constructing an exterior reinforcing steel cage, pouring concrete around the existing pipe, and backfilling.
The construction method is subject to change once the pipe is exposed, the release said.
Additional work facilitated by the feeder main shutdown window includes:
- Replacement of existing valves on the feeder main near the Shaganappi Pump Station which will support system reliability in the event of a future failure.
- Inspection of the steel pipe connection to the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant, supporting ongoing condition assessment.
- Replacement of valves at 33rd Ave. and 89 St., which help control how water moves between the feeder main and the smaller distribution system.
Water restrictions will be in place beginning March 9 as the feeder main is taken out of service to complete construction. The City of Calgary is asking residents to save 25-30 litres of water per day by keeping showers short, flushing toilets only when necessary and running dishwashers and washing machines only with a full load.
