Calgary’s water use above target threshold, but ‘far lower than normal usage levels’

Calgary’s water use climbed over the targeted safe threshold Friday, day five of the city’s water restrictions, but officials say this is “far lower” than normal levels.

Friday’s data shows Calgarians used a combined 492 million litres on Friday, a slight increase from Thursday’s 487 million litres.

The target set out by city officials to avoid the introduction of city-wide boil water advisories is 450 million litres. Using more than the targeted water amount could mean the reservoirs run dry, according to the city, leading to an extended boil water advisory.

While water use climbed upward, the city’s director of capital priorities and investments Francois Bouchart said on Saturday that this is “far lower than normal usage levels.”

“That shows that many of you are doing the right things to reduce water consumption,” he said.

“I want to thank everyone who has stopped using potable water outdoors and who is … shortening showers, skipping flushes and taking other steps to save water at home.”

However, Bouchard added the city is still seeing people and those at commercial properties using potable water outdoors, something prohibited under Stage 4 water restrictions.

He says there have been 347 reports of water misuse, including 230 at home and multi-family buildings, and 67 at businesses.

The fine for non-compliance is up to $3,000, and bylaw officers are going to follow up on the complaints and start issuing tickets.

Construction work at the water sites, total now 11

Meanwhile, Bouchart says crews are making progress at the sites along 33 Avenue NW and Shouldice Park, and are preparing for work at additional sites, which are expected to begin next week.

“At sites one through four along 33 Avenue NW at Shouldice Park, we have started construction activity on two more pipe segments, bringing the total to 11,” he said.

“Excavation is completed at two repair segments, and this weekend (Aug. 31), we expect to start the installation of rebar and formwork for concrete pouring.”

Bouchart estimates all excavations for the first four sites to be complete by Wednesday, Sept. 3.

For sites six through eight, crews are taking measures in preparing for construction that will start on Sept. 5.

He says 16 Avenue NW will be closed from 46 Street to the Bowness Road interchange with traffic being detoured along Bowness Road. He adds it will be open in both directions, with access to 16 Avenue and businesses.

“Our teams have designed a traffic plan that keeps the majority of business driveways open, enables parking and provides clear direction for customers looking to visit establishments,” Bouchart said.

“Bowness and Montgomery are open for business.”

Free short-term parking will be available throughout the community, adding the city is encouraging Calgarians to support local during this time.

Plans for the last site location, which is site five on 33 Avenue NW, are being finalized. Bouchart says affected residents are in direct contact with the city. More information will be made available as soon as it’s available.

“I want to reiterate how important it is for each of us to do our part to save water during this time, repairs we’re making to the feeder main are crucial to reducing the risk of another catastrophic break like the one we saw in June with the feeder main out of service during repairs,” Bouchart said.

“We simply can’t get as much water to you as we normally do, we need to collectively take steps to reduce our water demand, to make sure that we have enough to make it through this period.

“Your actions are making a difference and are so important to get us through the next month.”

Restrictions are expected to last until Sept. 23.