January 22, 2026
RED FM News Desk
The City of Calgary is urgently accelerating construction of a replacement for the Bearspaw South Feeder Main (BSFM), a key component of the city’s drinking water system, due to the critical condition of the existing pipe.
Under the revised plan, the project will install a new parallel steel pipe matching the size of the current BSFM. Once completed, the new line will gradually assume full service, ensuring long-term reliability of water delivery to the city. The replacement pipe is now expected to be completed by December 2026.
The construction contract has been awarded to Ward & Burke Microtunneling Ltd., with Graham Construction & Engineering Inc. serving as Construction Manager responsible for coordinating all project work.
Preparatory work is already underway, including the ordering of long-lead components. Construction crews are scheduled to begin mobilizing to work sites on Friday, Jan. 23, 2026, starting with site setup for Stage A of the project. This phase will run from the Shaganappi Pump Station to 73 Street N.W., on the west side of the Bow River.
Following site setup, construction will proceed around the clock in an effort to expedite completion and reduce long-term risk to Calgary’s water system.
The City confirmed that microtunnelling will continue as the construction method for Stage A, as originally planned. This approach is required to safely navigate major crossings along the route, including 16 Avenue N.W., the Bow River, Sarcee Trail, and the CPKC rail line.
City officials say the accelerated timeline reflects the essential role of the BSFM in maintaining a secure and resilient drinking water supply for Calgarians.
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