The City of Calgary has officially lifted indoor water restrictions following significant repair work and improvements to the municipal water system. Gondek detailed the efforts undertaken to address the water system issues that led to the restrictions. Over the past 26 days, multiple crews worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and reliability of the water supply. A key part of this effort involved flushing water through hydrants to reduce turbidity, or cloudiness, in the water. “Turbidity levels are coming down and trending in the right direction,” Gondek noted, highlighting the success of these measures.
One of the critical steps in restoring normal indoor water use was increasing production at the Bearspaw Water Treatment Plant. This increase allowed for essential maintenance at the Glenmore Water Treatment Plant. Additionally, the Bearspaw feeder main has now been brought up to 50% capacity, contributing to the stabilization of the water system.
Despite the lifting of indoor water restrictions, outdoor water restrictions remain in effect for the time being as the city continues to monitor and stabilize the water system. Mayor Gondek emphasized the importance of these ongoing efforts, noting that the city has already taken steps to improve monitoring and ensure that adequate supplies are available to address any future problems.
“We need to make sure that this doesn’t happen again,” Gondek stressed. To that end, she reiterated her commitment to a comprehensive examination of Calgary’s underground infrastructure. This examination will involve working closely with city council to secure the necessary budget for thorough inspections and maintenance of underground water pipes.
For now, residents can resume normal indoor water use, but are reminded to adhere to the ongoing outdoor water restrictions as the city works to fully stabilize and secure its water supply system.