City of Calgary Imposes Temporary Construction Limits Near Bearspaw South Feeder Main

CALGARY – The City of Calgary has announced temporary construction restrictions aimed at protecting the Bearspaw South Feeder Main, a critical piece of the city’s water infrastructure, while work continues on a new parallel replacement pipe.

Officials say the interim measures are designed to minimize underground disturbances in areas surrounding the feeder main, particularly in the communities of Bowness and Montgomery. The aging pipe remains fragile, and underground construction — especially utility excavation — poses a potential risk of exposure or structural damage.

Under the new guidelines, no digging will be permitted within 10 metres of the existing feeder main. Permissions for underground utility or service work on nearby roads will also be limited. In addition, the city is advising against pile driving and other construction activities that generate heavy ground vibrations, which could compromise the pipe’s integrity.

Ward 1 Councillor Kim Tyers said residents and business owners in the affected areas have expressed concerns about the impact of intensified housing development during this sensitive infrastructure period. According to Tyers, the temporary measures aim to reduce traffic congestion, lower the risk of accidental damage to the water system, and protect the local economy while the replacement project is underway.

City officials emphasized that the restrictions are focused specifically on underground construction near the feeder main corridor. Homeowners will still be able to carry out renovations, landscaping, apply for change-of-use permits, or obtain business licences for private property projects, provided the work does not interfere with restricted zones.

Teresa Goldstein, Director of Community Planning for the city, said several options were reviewed before implementing the interim controls. The chosen approach allows development to continue but with heightened oversight to prevent unintended stress on the vulnerable water line.

The Bearspaw South Feeder Main plays a key role in delivering water across northwest Calgary. As the city advances plans to fully replace the aging pipe with a new parallel line, officials say safeguarding the existing infrastructure remains essential to maintaining uninterrupted water service.

The temporary measures will remain in place until the feeder main replacement project is completed. City representatives say updates will be provided as construction progresses and further assessments are made.