About

Please note this map is a graphic representation and may not indicate exact locations. Click the map to view a larger version

Project Overview 

Xcel Energy is replacing 5.2 miles of natural gas line for the Southeast Metro Natural Gas Project. The project will connect to aboveground natural gas regulator stations, which regulate natural gas pressure, and natural gas line valves, which isolate sections of natural gas line for maintenance procedures or emergency shutoffs.

This project is being constructed as part of Xcel Energy’s commitment to system revitalization and will allow Xcel Energy to continue to provide the safe, reliable natural gas service our customers expect.

Project Schedule 

Construction started in summer 2020 and is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2021.

Please note that project schedules are subject to change.

Project Route 

We evaluated seven route alternatives, considering various elements including natural gas system planning, construction logistics, engineering, environmental factors, community impacts and land use approvals to determine the preferred route. We incorporated feedback from key stakeholders to select the preferred route. Xcel Energy continues to work with jurisdictions to obtain required permits for the preferred route.

Work at Regulator Stations

Beginning January 2021, we will replace a natural gas regulator station located near the intersection of Havana Street and Berry Avenue in Greenwood Village and unincorporated Arapahoe County. The replacement regulator station will connect to the natural gas line being installed for the project.

Click here to learn more.

Beginning in February 2021, we will replace a regulator station between Akron and Yosemite streets, near Hampden Avenue in Denver. Replacement is needed to support the new natural gas line currently being installed.

Click here to learn more.

Work in Cherry Creek State Park 

Protecting the environment is one of our core values. Xcel Energy’s operations have an excellent record of responsible environmental stewardship.

To reduce potential impacts to prairie dogs while we work in Cherry Creek State Park, we have implemented a prairie dog management plan in accordance with Colorado Parks and Wildlife and park guidelines. Xcel Energy has employed a qualified contractor to passively relocate prairie dogs. This non-lethal method reduces potential interactions between prairie dogs and construction crews. During passive relocation, prairie dogs move from the immediate construction area to habitat outside the construction area. They return following construction.

During passive prairie dog relocation efforts, we will implement temporary trail closures in Cherry Creek State Park. For your safety and the safety for crews and wildlife, please follow posted detours and directions from crews.

Click here for a map detailing trail closures during these efforts.

Xcel Energy coordinated with Colorado Parks and Wildlife about potential project impacts to burrowing owls. To avoid impacting identified nesting sites, Xcel Energy will follow Colorado Parks and Wildlife recommendations to the extent feasible. Xcel Energy will also comply with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Bald and Golden Eagle Act.

Staging Areas 

The project has three temporary material staging areas near the project route: 

  • Near Havana Street and Yale Avenue in Denver. 
  • Near Boston Street and Mansfield Avenue in Aurora. 
  • Troy Circle in Centennial. 

Crews stage temporary work trailers, materials and equipment between uses at these areas. 

Construction Process 

Crews are installing the natural gas line using a combination of open trenching and boring. Open trenching involves digging a trench and placing the natural gas line in the trench. Boring involves using a bore machine to create an underground pathway through which the natural gas line is pulled or drilled. 

During construction, we take measures to reduce potential public inconveniences that may include: 

  • Temporary partial or complete road, parking lot or sidewalk closures. 
  • Traffic control measures including flaggers and detours. 
  • Temporary changes to site access. 
  • Elevated levels of noise. 

The project team will work closely with Cherry Creek State Park to plan trail detours.

Once construction has been completed in work areas, we will restore them to preconstruction conditions or to the conditions required by permits.