State of local emergency declared by mayor of Calgary [Video]

The City of Calgary declared a local state of emergency Saturday morning in response to the latest developments in a major water main break impacting the city.

Friday, city officials released an assessment that revealed five more hot spots require fixing, which they say will be done simultaneously using a number of private contractors in addition to city crews.

The early assessment suggests that it may take three to five more weeks to complete the repairs.

“The decision to declare a State of Local Emergency was not taken lightly, and it was done to ensure we are prepared for all eventualities in the drive to have this water feeder main restoration work done as quickly and safely as possible,” said Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek. “I am grateful to the Government of Alberta for endorsing this approach and offering their support as we address this critical water situation.”

Gondek said the …