Leetsdale-Monroe-Elati 230-kV Underground Transmission Line Replacement
Project Overview
Xcel Energy plans to replace the six-mile-long 230-kilovolt (kV) Leetsdale-Monroe-Elati underground transmission line in central and southeast Denver. This and adjacent areas have experienced tremendous growth in recent years, which has increased the demand for additional, reliable electricity. To address the need, we will install a larger, more modern electric cable system.
The existing underground transmission line must be relocated to be replaced due to its location predominantly beneath Leetsdale Drive and Speer Boulevard, both heavily used thoroughfares. Concerns for public and occupational safety in heavy traffic areas during construction, constraints associated with keeping the line energized during construction and the underground space allowance needed to replace the line prohibit a rebuild in place. The proposed route location avoids collector and aerial roadways, which supports the safe construction, operations and maintenance of the underground line.
Public Outreach
Join us for a neighborhood meeting!
Xcel Energy will host a series of neighborhood meetings in early November—two in person and one virtual—to inform residents and businesses about the need for the project, the upcoming work and what to expect during construction.
Join us in person anytime between the listed hours. No formal presentation is planned, so feel free to attend at your convenience. We’ll post meeting materials on this webpage after the events.
We look forward to meeting with you.
Wednesday, November 5, 2025
6:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Carson Elementary School – Cafeteria
5420 E 1st Avenue
Denver, CO 80220
Thursday, November 6, 2025
5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
La Alma Recreation Center – Multipurpose Room
1325 W 11th Avenue
Denver, CO 80204
Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Virtual Meeting
6:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Zoom link is forthcoming
We’re committed to transparency and collaboration, and we’ll continue engaging with the public throughout the life of this project. Open communication builds trust, fosters understanding, and helps ensure the project reflects community needs.
This webpage offers multiple ways for you to get involved, share your thoughts, ask questions, and voice concerns. Your input matters, and we’re committed to listening and incorporating feedback wherever feasible.
For those directly affected by construction, we provide timely updates to help you stay informed. Check back weekly for the latest construction and traffic information.
* Use the interactive map at the top of this webpage to view construction timing in your area. *
Construction Activities
Here’s what you can expect.
Phase 1 pre-construction work, between the Leetsdale and Monroe substations, began in late September 2025. You may notice:
- Onsite field assessments.
- Marking of utility lines, survey holes, equipment and work areas.
- Soil sampling in roadways.
- Pruning, trimming and/or vegetation removal.
Construction is anticipated to begin in early November. You may notice:
- Street and sidewalk closures, detours and signs.
- Increased travel time for commuters.
- Traffic control.
- Temporary changes to access, street and street-parking closures.
- Erosion and sediment control installation around work zones.
- Work zone fencing, equipment and material staging in and along streets.
- Construction operations, dust and noise.
During construction, we’ll install the new electric transmission lines and precast vaults using the open trench method, which involves cutting and removing street pavement to excavate a trench to place the electrical equipment within it.
Construction crews will work Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. and 7 p.m., and Saturday’s between 8 a.m. and 7 p.m. In certain situations, crews may be required to work evenings, nights, or Sundays.
We will restore work areas to conditions required by permits as weather allows. Work areas may be left temporarily restored after construction until we can complete final restoration.
Phase 1 Leetsdale to Monroe
*Map components are not to scale, and are for illustration purposes only.
Safety Around Construction Areas
We are committed to maintaining a safe working environment in your community. For your safety and the safety of our crews, remember these tips:
- Watch for construction crews and equipment.
- Do not enter construction areas.
- Obey signs and directions from crews.
- Follow posted vehicle and pedestrian detours.
- Reduce speeds while traveling.
- Observe parking restrictions.
- Remain flexible as work progresses and work areas change.
Project Timeline
- Project Planning: 2023 - 2025
- Permitting: 2025 - 2026
- Public Outreach: 2025 - 2028
- Pre-construction: 2025 - 2026
- Construction:
- Phase 1: 2025 - 2027
- Phase 2: 2026 - 2028
- In Service: 2028
Contact Us
To submit your questions or comments:
-
Mail the completed form or a letter to:
Xcel Energy Leetsdale-Monroe-Elati Transmission Line Replacement
C/O POWER Engineers
3900 S Wadsworth Blvd. Suite 700
Lakewood, CO 80235
- Email the completed form or a letter to leetsdaletoelati@xcelenergytransmission.com
- Call 303-716-8990 to submit verbal comments
- Populate the below electronic Contact Form and select Submit