Airdrie is growing and reliable wastewater infrastructure is essential to support that growth safely and sustainably. In 2025, the Province of Alberta announced a $50 million investment toward Airdrie’s new wastewater infrastructure. This funding is a major step forward for the $114 million wastewater line project and comes at a critical time as Airdrie plans for long-term housing, employment and essential services.
The new wastewater line will:
• Support a wider range of housing options, including more affordable housing
• Enable future employment and industrial growth
• Strengthen regional infrastructure with Calgary
• Reduce long-term operating risks and costs
What is a gravity trunk sewer?
A gravity trunk sewer is a large underground pipe that moves wastewater downhill using gravity instead of pumps. Right now, much of Airdrie’s wastewater relies on lift stations and pressurized pipes to pump wastewater long distances. A gravity trunk allows wastewater to flow naturally, which:
• Improves system reliability
• Reduces the need for pumping and energy use
• Lowers the risk of breakdowns
• Provides capacity for growth well beyond 2065
This new gravity trunk will connect Airdrie directly to Calgary’s regional wastewater system.
Scope of work:
• Construction of a new regional sanitary sewer to carry wastewater from Airdrie to Calgary – Project location
• About seven kilometres of large-diameter pipe within an existing utility corridor
• Replaces long pumping systems with gravity flow
• Designed to handle peak flows well beyond 2065
• Includes careful coordination around roads, railways, waterways, wetlands and utilities
• Construction methods will vary depending on location, including trenchless installation where necessary
Construction is planned to start in 2026, with completion expected in early 2028.
Investing in reliable infrastructure
These projects ensure Airdrie has the infrastructure it needs to grow responsibly, protect the environment and continue delivering reliable services to residents today and into the future.