Alberta-ordered review of Calgary water system finds problems and poor decisions

Calgary water probe finds problems, poor decisions
Calgary water probe finds problems, poor decisions
Crews continue to work to repair a major water main break and five other weak spots in Calgary, Saturday, June 22, 2024.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh
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A third-party report into Calgary’s problematic water system says the city wasn't properly aware of the extent of the problem.

The report, ordered up by the provincial government, says the issue over the years was systemic rather than the fault of city councillors.

The report comes as Calgarians and those in surrounding communities are being asked to once again comply with water restrictions due to repair work on the Bearspaw South Feeder Main.

The main has ruptured twice in the last two years, leading to intermittent water restrictions while the pipe is overhauled and replaced.

The line supplies more than half the drinking water to the city.

The report makes 20 recommendations, including the creation of an arm's-length water utility corporation.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Nov. 5, 2026.

By Dayne Patterson | Copyright 2026, The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

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