Update on the Arbour Lake Sinkhole and Other Local Issues

This past week, we joined the Director of Mobility, Troy McLeod, for an on-site visit at the corner of Arbour Lake Way and Arbour Lake Drive to review the sinkhole that has been an ongoing concern for residents.

I want to thank the residents who raised this matter with me and stayed engaged through repeated disruptions—it’s clear how frustrating this has been. Your persistence helped us get to the bottom of it, and I thank you for your patience.

Here’s the background:

• The sinkhole has been repaired several times, but the problem kept returning.
• At first, Water Services investigated for a leak but didn’t find one. Typically, voids are detected about one meter underground, but in this case the issue was deeper, which is why it took more time for it to get noticed.
• As the sinkhole occurred right beside a waterline, the initial assumption was that the sinkhole was created by a leak in the pipe. However, after multiple tests, and multiple repairs, no leak was ever discovered.
• After the initial repair attempts failed, Mobility stepped in with more advanced testing, including hydrovac work, which revealed a void much further below the surface. This may have been caused by thawing of frozen ice deep underground.
• Once that was discovered, Water Services was able to repair the void, and Mobility completed the road repair on September 4. Pylons will remain in place until the asphalt has had 24 hours to settle.
• To prevent further surprises, Mobility will also be conducting ground penetrating radar (GPR) testing in the area to ensure there aren’t other voids nearby.

This was an unusual case, and I want to emphasize that City staff worked hard to find a lasting solution.

While on site, we also spoke about other local issues that were brought to our attention by residents, including:

• A nearby catch basin repair
• Boulevard repair across from the YMCA
• Bylaw enforcement for commercial site cleanup across from the YMCA
• Concrete remnants cleanup along Nose Hill and John Laurie Blvd, between Nose Hill and Sarcee

Thank you again to everyone who took the time to connect and share concerns. Your involvement helps keep me informed and ensures City Administration is aware of where improvements are needed.

And as always, if you ever have any questions or concerns, please email us at ward2@calgary.ca. I’m always happy to chat or set up a call with anyone.

— Jennifer