Alberta government launches investigation into Calgary water main disasters

The Alberta government has launched a formal inspection into the “City of Calgary’s management, administration and operations of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main."

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The Alberta government has launched a formal inspection into the “City of Calgary’s management, administration and operations of the Bearspaw South Feeder Main” in response to two major watermain failures in less than two years.

“Given the recurring nature of this situation and the severe impact it is having on the daily lives of Calgarians and surrounding communities, all of whom rely on a safe, reliable water system to support their families and businesses, I believe an inspection is necessary. This decision was not taken lightly,” said Minister of Municipal Affairs on Friday.”

These water main failures, which occurred in June 2024 and December 2025, caused major disruptions for residents and businesses. The Alberta government tasked David Goldie with leading an investigation into Calgary’s water management.

Goldie has more than 40 years’ experience in technical, operational and governance roles across the province. He previously served as board chair of the Alberta Energy Regulator.

The inspection will review tens of thousands of documents the province acquired from the City of Calgary. This follows an independent review commissioned by the city after last year’s massive rupture.

That review concluded the system’s fragility likely built up over decades, including under former mayor Naheed Nenshi’s tenure, with warning signs dating back to a separate water main break in 2004.

When asked what the difference would be between the two investigations, Williams said when it comes to municipal affairs, “Calgarians would agree this is a crisis.”

“It is a failure of the most core and basic services of a municipality. This is about transparency and accountability,” he said. “It’s a normal power that we have in these situations. We have given this inspector the power to get to the bottom of things.”

The province will cover the cost of the new inspection. While it is expected to take several months, the province intends to complete it by the end of the year and share its findings publicly.

These water main failures caused major disruptions for residents and businesses.

“Under the Municipal Government Act, the inspector has the power to require attendance of municipal officials or any other person the inspector considers necessary to provide evidence and to produce any documents, papers, or things the inspector considers to be required,” said the Alberta government in a press release on Friday.

“Additionally, the inspector will have the authority to engage technical experts to support the inspection process.”