Calgary to Announce Timeline for Easing Indoor Water Restrictions Amid Ongoing Stabilization Efforts
Calgary, July 1, 2024 — Calgary officials are set to provide an update on Tuesday regarding the potential easing of indoor water conservation measures. This comes as the city’s water system continues to stabilize following the rupture of the Bearspaw feeder main in early June.
Current Situation:
In a livestream update on Monday, Michael Thompson, Calgary’s general manager of infrastructure services, indicated that a review of current data is underway. The city will decide whether to ease some restrictions or maintain them for a longer period. “You will have an update tomorrow about whether we are ready to ease some of those reductions and restrictions, or if more time is needed,” Thompson said.
Stabilization Process:
The Calgary Emergency Management Agency (CEMA) Chief, Sue Henry, confirmed that the Bearspaw feeder main has been successfully reintroduced into the distribution system. “We are continuing to stabilize the water system, and will continue to operate that system at a reduced capacity,” Henry said. The stabilization phase is critical and presents the greatest risk of further breaks or disruptions, according to Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “If we go too fast, we could overstress the system. This could cause leaks or breaks. That’s why we’re being so incredibly cautious,” Gondek noted.
Water Usage:
Calgarians have responded positively to calls for reduced water consumption, using 425 million litres of water on Sunday—the lowest since the crisis began. Mayor Gondek expressed gratitude to residents for their efforts, especially in light of challenges such as the significant water used to fight a fire at Ol’ Beautiful Brewing Company in Ramsay.
Next Steps:
City officials will provide a detailed update at 10:30 a.m. MT on Tuesday, outlining how close they are to easing indoor water conservation measures. While some restrictions may be lifted, the city cautions that it will not be an all-at-once approach.
Calgarians may notice cloudy water from their taps as the feeder main is reconnected. The city assures that drinking water remains safe and is working to clear the cloudiness by flushing water at some hydrants.