Calgary infrastructure rated extensive risk as 11% of assets in poor condition

A city report says Calgary’s capital infrastructure risk rose to extensive after a major water main rupture, and 11% of city assets are assessed as being in poor to very poor condition.

City officials report that Calgary's capital infrastructure risk has been raised to the highest rating, described as extensive. The change follows the Dec. 30 rupture of the Bearspaw feeder main, which supplies a large share of the city's drinking water and led to temporary water restrictions. The report says much of the city's infrastructure is aging and some assets are exceeding expected lifespans. It also cites deferred maintenance, rising costs, population growth and labour shortages as pressures. Key points: - The city's capital infrastructure risk rating rose from high to extensive in the latest assessment, following the Bearspaw feeder main rupture. - The report found 11 per cent of city assets are in poor to very poor condition, citing water infrastructure, IT systems, fleet vehicles, buildings, bridges and roads. - The report is scheduled for discussion by the city's audit committee on Thursday, and councillors are to receive further reports on critical infrastructure, asset condition and capital needs over the next four months. Summary: The report places Calgary's infrastructure at an extensive risk level and links that assessment to aging assets, deferred maintenance and growing demand. The city lists ongoing measures such as preventative maintenance, replacement work on the Bearspaw feeder main, increased inspections and development of a 10-year capital investment plan. Councillors will receive additional reporting in the coming months to outline needs and associated costs.