Details of the declaration and immediate responses
The emergency announcement was made alongside Sue Henry, Chief of Calgary's Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), who highlighted the critical nature of the situation. Mayor Gondek emphasized that the decision to declare a state of local emergency was essential to prepare for all possible outcomes and expedite the restoration work on the water feeder main. She expressed gratitude towards the Government of Alberta for their support in these trying times. The mayor also mentioned her proactive communications with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith and the private sector to mobilize all available resources for a swift resolution.
Scope of the problem and strategic solutions
The crisis worsened on Friday when city officials discovered additional damage at five new sites on the water main, requiring three to five more weeks of repair. The declaration of emergency grants the city the necessary permissions to use private property for equipment storage essential for the repairs. Francois Bouchart, Director of Capital Priorities and Investment, indicated that the city had sourced the necessary pipe material from North America to replace the damaged segments, with some expected to arrive by mid - next week.
Community impact and ongoing measures
The state of emergency not only underscores the gravity of the situation but also reinforces the city's commitment to restoring water service as quickly and safely as possible. The city is prioritizing the repair work, and officials are urging residents to conserve water. Responses from the community are mixed, with some residents expressing increased willingness to save water, while others feel the impact of the declaration has been less significant.
Preparing for broader impacts
The timing of the emergency is particularly concerning due to its proximity to the Calgary Stampede, scheduled to start on July 5. The event significantly benefits the local economy, and there are concerns about water availability affecting the festivities. Mayor Gondek assured the public that the city is analyzing past data to manage water usage effectively during the event. The city, along with CEMA, is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with all stakeholders to minimize the impact and ensure a quick return to normalcy.
Source: CBC