Calgary Implements Temporary Construction Restrictions to Safeguard Critical Water Infrastructure
The City of Calgary has introduced temporary measures to limit underground construction activity in the vicinity of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. This strategic move aims to mitigate risks to the aging and fragile water pipeline while repair and replacement efforts are underway.
Protecting a Vulnerable Pipeline
According to a recent press release, the interim restrictions are designed to reduce the potential for exposing or disturbing the feeder main, which is currently in a delicate state. The city has emphasized that these measures are crucial to maintaining the integrity of the water supply system during this critical period.
Specific Measures and Community Impact
The new guidelines include a prohibition on digging within 10 meters of the feeder main, along with limitations on underground utility and service work on adjacent roads. Additionally, activities that generate heavy vibrations, such as pile driving, are being strongly discouraged to prevent further stress on the pipeline.
Teresa Goldstein, the city’s director of community planning, explained the rationale behind these steps. "The city looked at several options to reduce potential disturbances to the existing fragile feeder main from private development," she stated. "The interim measures we are announcing today will allow development to continue with an added layer of oversight."
Addressing Local Concerns
Ward 1 Councillor Kim Tyers highlighted that residents and business owners in the Bowness and Montgomery areas had voiced significant concerns about additional construction exacerbating traffic issues and posing a threat to the aging pipes. "By limiting underground construction near the existing pipe and new replacement pipe, we are relieving some of the pressure on these communities and ensuring we are doing our best to maintain the integrity of the feeder main until its full replacement," Tyers remarked.
Exemptions and Further Information
The city has clarified that these restrictions will not affect Calgarians planning renovation work, landscaping activities, or applying for changes in property use or business licenses on private properties. For more details, including a map of the impacted zones, residents are encouraged to visit the City of Calgary’s official website.
This proactive approach underscores the city’s commitment to balancing urban development with the preservation of essential infrastructure, ensuring public safety and resource stability during the pipeline upgrade process.
