Empress, Alta. demolishes its 1981 water tower, replacing it with a $2.6M reservoir to secure water supply and support local growth.
Landmark Comes Down with a Bang
Residents of Empress, Alta., witnessed a dramatic farewell to a town icon on Tuesday morning as crews demolished the seven-story water tower that had stood over the 175-house village near the Saskatchewan border. An excavator yanked a line attached to the 25-metre-tall structure, sending it crashing down in a booming spectacle that drew smiles and memories from locals.
New Infrastructure Replaces Old Tower
The original water tower, built in 1981, had been flagged for structural concerns for several years. After extensive planning and securing grant funding, a new $2.6-million reservoir now stands nearby. Unlike its “tall and thin” predecessor, the new “short and fat” design prioritizes functionality while ensuring a safe and reliable water supply for residents.
Community Memories and Reflections
For many, the demolition marked the end of an era. Empress Mayor Dawna Martin acknowledged the emotional impact, saying the tower’s removal leaves “a hole in our community for a while.” The original tower, once bright yellow and outfitted with a satellite dish, had been a visual and cultural landmark since the 1980s. Residents shared stories during the event, including the discovery of a mysterious highway sign on the tower’s roof.
Ensuring Safety and Growth
Village chief administrator Jerry Gautreau emphasized that the new reservoir addresses a critical need. While the volume remains similar, the updated infrastructure safeguards the potable water supply for the village and some nearby Saskatchewan residents. “This project was vital for the safety of our residents and to support future development,” Gautreau said.
Funding and Regional Impact
Most of the project’s cost is covered by Alberta government water program grants and ongoing provincial infrastructure funding over two years. The village, located 150 kilometres north of Medicine Hat near the Red Deer and South Saskatchewan rivers, hopes the new reservoir will help attract new residents and investment to the region.
Looking Forward
While the towering landmark is gone, Empress embraces a modernized water system that blends necessity with community pride. The demolition and celebration highlight how small towns adapt infrastructure while keeping local heritage alive in stories and memories.
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