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Cranbrook, BC (February 26, 2026) – Water crews with Public Works, along with our contractor Pure Technologies, will be conducting important inspections of the City’s main water trunk from Monday, March 2 to Friday, March 6, 2026. Work will take place daily from 7:30am to 9:00pm.

This inspection helps the City understand the current condition of the main water trunk, which is the primary water supply pipe from Phillips Reservoir approximately 8 kilometers into the community. With this information, we can plan repairs before problems occur and help establish updated lifespans and schedules for future replacement. Taking this proactive approach reduces risk and can extend the life of this critical infrastructure—potentially saving millions of tax dollars over time.

If we do not complete this assessment, we are not able to fully understand the likelihood of a catastrophic failure, similar to what has recently been experienced by the City of Calgary. By using clear, data based information, the City can optimize future infrastructure investments and better prevent avoidable emergencies.

To complete this work, the contractor will use tools such as SmartBall and PipeDiver. SmartBall travels inside the pipe to identify tiny leaks and pockets of trapped gas without interrupting water service. PipeDiver also travels inside the pipe to check the pipe walls for signs of weakness or damage. Together, these tools give us a detailed look at what is happening inside the main water trunk so we can plan repairs where they are needed most.

Because of this inspection work, the City of Cranbrook and the Interior Health Authority (IHA) will issue a city wide Water Quality Advisory for the duration of the project. During this time, water customers may notice minor pressure changes, increased turbidity, and cloudy water. There may also be higher manganese levels as the inspection takes place. Learn more about manganese here.

Both IHA and the City recommend that children, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems, or anyone who prefers additional protection use boiled water or a safe alternative for:

• Drinking
• Washing fruits and vegetables
• Making beverages or ice
• Brushing teeth

Bring water to a rolling boil for at least one minute before using it.

The City will continue to closely monitor water quality throughout the inspection and will provide updates as needed.

For more information about water quality and the City’s overall water system, please visit: https://cranbrook.ca/water-conservation/water-quality/.