Xcel Energy is building a better, cleaner energy future by taking steps to create a smarter and stronger energy grid, for a more secure energy supply. This commitment includes replacing infrastructure reaching the end of its useful life.
We plan to replace two 60+ year old transmission lines that run from the Leadville substation northward to both the Climax and Robinson Rack substations, a significant portion of which parallels Highway 91 in Lake County.
The transmission lines deliver critical energy within Colorado’s central mountain communities. The lines were originally built in the 1940s and 1950s with wood H-frame and steel lattice-work towers. Due to natural weathering and the overall age of the transmission structures and equipment, the lines have reached the end of their useful life and must be replaced. New infrastructure will improve electric service reliability to homes and businesses in the region, withstand higher than normal windspeeds, proactively mitigate the risk of wildfire damage to the transmission line and help meet the region’s energy needs for years to come.
The transmission lines cross land belonging to private property owners, the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service, within Lake and Eagle counties. All work will be done in compliance with strict conservation requirements established by these public agencies.
The rebuild project will take approximately three years to complete, with construction schedules dependent on weather.
Xcel Energy plans to begin construction in summer 2024, north of Leadville, with work progressing northward near Highway 91. Work will continue through the fall then resume in spring 2025 and 2026, with completion expected by fall 2026.
When rebuilding the segment of transmission line east of Leadville, likely in 2025, contractors will use helicopters to safely deliver construction materials and transmission towers to locations not accessible by vehicles. Traffic on the Mineral Belt Trail will be halted briefly to allow for safe transport across the trail. Information about scheduled helicopter use near Leadville will be published in the local newspaper and on the Mineral Belt Trail.
If you have any questions or comments, please call 303-571-7367 or email LeadvilletoClimax@xcelenergy.com
Leadville to Climax/Robinson Rack Information Sheet (PDF)
Leadville to Climax/Robinson Rack Information Sheeet (Spanish) (PDF)
Transmission Line Construction (PDF)
Birds and Power Lines (PDF)
EMF (PDF)
Safety around power lines (PDF)
