Calgary has a pressing need to address the 187 kilometres of pre-stressed concrete cylinder pipe that underpins the Bearspaw feeder main. The estimated cost of $255 million to repair and replace this critical asset demands a well-thought-out strategy, timeline and budget. The risks associated with failing to proactively manage infrastructure are obvious to Calgarians today.
Fortunately for Calgary, we happen to have one of the highest concentrations of pipeline expertise in the world working and living in this city. We need to immediately tap into that expertise to develop a comprehensive infrastructure strategy that ensures both fiscal responsibility and the city’s long-term sustainability.
We need to immediately start to develop a risk mitigation strategy to address potential service disruptions, increased repair costs and compromised public safety. A detailed strategy will allow Calgary to ensure we have regular inspections, and a plan to prioritize repairs based on the condition and criticality of the pipes.
The significant investment required to refurbish the pipe network cannot be sourced overnight. A long-term financial plan, possibly involving phased funding allocations and co-operation with our provincial and federal governments, is essential to spread the financial burden and ensure that the project is feasible without causing undue strain on the city’s budget or taxpayers.
As Calgary prepares its strategy regarding the Bearspaw feeder main, it should also consider the role of technological advancements in infrastructure repair and replacement. Again, the very best pipeline operators in the world operate out of Calgary. Shipping oil and natural gas requires massive investments in safety and inspections, and demands absolute minimal leakage rates. They require plans for emergency shutdowns and offtake valves, stockpiling spare pipe so that it is readily available and emergency response plans for every conceivable situation. Through industry, we have access to knowledge of innovative materials and methods that can offer cost savings, enhanced durability and reduced environmental effect. Incorporating these technologies into the strategy could improve efficiency and outcomes. It is always OK to ask for help, particularly in a crisis.
City council and administration providing access to a transparent strategy that includes community input is vital for public support — engaging with residents and businesses about the effects on neighbourhoods and businesses. The benefits of a well-thought-out and staged infrastructure replacement plan, and the funding mechanisms for that project, are also key to helping Calgarians understand the importance of prioritizing this project.
The strategy must be adaptable to changing circumstances. Additionally, the city must ensure that the strategy aligns with other urban planning and environmental initiatives, creating a cohesive vision for Calgary’s future. We have to stop looking at our critical infrastructure projects linearly. Governments can not sign off on $1.2 billion in taxpayer dollars for a new arena, for example, without considering where that infrastructure project lines up in priority with critical infrastructure maintenance (from water mains to potholes, roads and bridges), the Green Line and hotel space near the new event centre, to name a few. And Calgarians deserve to drive the conversation on what their priorities are for this strategy.
The repair and replacement of Calgary’s water network is not just a matter of routine maintenance; it is a critical investment in the city’s future. By crafting a detailed, multi-decade strategy that addresses funding, risk management, technological innovation, community engagement and economic impact, Calgary can ensure the reliability of its water infrastructure for future generations.
The time to act is now, with a clear-eyed view of the challenges ahead and a steadfast commitment to the well-being and prosperity of all Calgarians.
Brian Thiessen is the chair of Calgary Act Now.