HomeMy WebLinkAbout20240554.tiffMEMORANDUM
TO: Kim Ogle, Planning Services
FROM: Melissa J King, PE, DRE
DATE: October 23, 2023
SUBJECT: USR23-0039 Public Service Co of Colorado
This proposal has been reviewed on behalf of Weld County Department of Public Works and Department
of Planning Services. Staff comments made during this phase of the application process may not be all-
inclusive, as other issues may arise during the remaining application process.
COMMENTS
GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION/LOCATION
Project description: A Site Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for a Major Facility
of a Public Utility or Public Agency approximately 47.2 miles of new 345 -kilovolt (kV) double circuit electric
transmission line including the 58.7 acre laydown yard referred to as the Cervi Yard and the 59.4 -acre
laydown yard, referred to as the Sarchet Yard outside of subdivisions and historic townsites in the A
(Agricultural) Zone District
This project is east of Platteville extending east into Morgan County.
Parcel numbers: Various — See Application.
Access is from: Various — See Application.
ACCESS
Development Review has reviewed the application materials related to access.
Based on the application materials, multiple temporary access points are proposed for this 47.2 miles of
new transmission line and the two laydown yards. Please submit access applications for all the proposed
access points. These access points should meet the safety standards and Minimum Access Spacing
Criteria, included in Chapter 8 of the Code. It is noted that the applicant has stated that they may request
that several of the temporary access points be converted to permanent access points in the future.
Per Sec. 8-14-30, an Access Permit is required for access to Weld County maintained roadways. We
strongly encourage you to discuss your access with Development Review prior to laying out your site plan
to ensure the approved accesses are compatible with your layout. Per Sec. 24-8-40, when feasible, there
shall be no net increase in the number of accesses to a public road. Minimum access spacing are shown
in Weld County Code, Sec. 8-14-30 Table 1. Please refer to Chapter 8 of the Weld County Code for more
information regarding access.
ROADS AND RIGHTS -OF -WAY
Local County Roads, as designated on the Weld County Functional Classification Map (Code Ordinance
2017-01), require 60 feet of right-of-way.
Collector County Roads, as designated on the Weld County Functional Classification map (Code Ordinance
2017-01), require 80 feet of right-of-way.
Arterial County Roads, as designated on the Weld County Functional Classification map (Code Ordinance
2017-01), require 140 feet of right-of-way.
The applicant shall delineate and label on the USR map the future and existing right-of-way (along with the
documents creating the existing right-of-way) and the physical location of the road. If the right-of-way cannot
be verified it shall be dedicated. Pursuant to the definition of setback in the Weld County Code, Sec. 23-1-
90, the required setback is measured from the future right-of-way line. Be aware that physical roadways
may not be centered in the right-of-way. Determine if these roads are maintained by Weld County.
If any portion of a County road, proposed for use, is under the jurisdiction of a municipality, the municipality
has jurisdiction over access to the road. Please contact the municipality to verify the right-of-way
requirements, access permit or for any additional requirements that may be needed to obtain or upgrade
the permit.
If any portion of the project involves state highway right-of-way, contact Colorado Department of
Transportation (CDOT) to determine what right-of-way shall be shown on the USR map. Reference the
documents creating the right of -way. Please contact Mr. Tim Bilobran at the Greeley office, phone number
970-350-2163.
Per, Sec. 8-13-30.B, a Weld County Right -of -Way Use Permit is required for any project that will be
occupying, constructing or excavating facilities within, and/or encroaching upon, any County rights -of -way
or easement. Right -of -Way Use Permit instructions and application can be found at
https://www.weldgov.com/Government/Departments/Public-Works/Permits
Weld County will not replace overlapping easements located within existing right-of-way or pay to relocate
existing utilities within the County right-of-way.
TRAFFIC
The applicant has provided the following traffic information in the application materials:
• Operational traffic — While the transmission line will be operated remotely, there will be 2 vehicles
per month that visit the site for inspections and maintenance.
• Construction traffic — Construction may take up to 24 months. For the transmission line, there will
be a maximum of 40 vehicle roundtrips per day. For the lay down yards, there will be a maximum
of 30 vehicle roundtrips per day. Construction vehicles (e.g. concrete trucks, cranes) will deliver
the equipment to the construction site. Construction will be phased.
No additional traffic information is needed, at this time. However, more traffic information may be required
for the access locations that will be changed from temporary to permanent.
TRACKING CONTROL
Tracking control is required to prevent tracking from the site onto public roadways. For access to paved
roads, tracking control devices can be double cattle guards with 100 ft. of asphalt or 300 ft of asphalt. For
access to gravel roads, tracking control devices must be either double cattle guards with 100 ft. of road
base, or road base on all driving surfaces. Temporary Tracking Control shall be used during construction
unless permanent tracking control is installed ahead of construction activities. Recycled concrete is not
allowed in County right-of-way. Tracking control for unmaintained public right-of-way is required just prior
to entering publicly maintained roadways. A variance request for alternatives to the tracking control
requirement can be submitted to Development Review for review and consideration.
This site requires approved tracking control during construction. This will include road base and/or other
adequate VTC devices. Additional tracking control may be required for access points that will become
permanent.
ROAD MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT - CONSTRUCTION
Development Review is requesting a Road Maintenance Agreement including, but not limited to, dust
control and damage repair to specified haul routes.
Improvements/Road Maintenance Agreement: An example agreement is available at:
https://www.weld.gov/Government/Departments/Planning-and-Zoning/Development-Review .
DRAINAGE REQUIREMENTS
A portion of the area may be within an Urbanizing Drainage Area: Urbanizing Drainage Areas typically
require detention of runoff from the 1 -hour, 100 -year, storm falling on the developed site and release of the
detained water at the historic runoff rate of the 1 -hour, 5 -year storm falling on the undeveloped site for
URBANIZING areas.
Detention Pond summarized in a Drainage Report:
The applicant has submitted a preliminary drainage report for the Cervi laydown yard and a preliminary
drainage report for the Sarchet laydown yard. The reports propose the use of retention ponds at both sites.
Weld County Code does not allow for retention ponds without an approved variance. Variance requests
have been submitted for review.
The final drainage reports and variance requests shall be completed by a Colorado Licensed Professional
Engineer and is required prior to recording the USR map. The drainage report must include a Certificate of
Compliance stamped and signed by the PE. A Certificate of Compliance form can be found on the
Development Review website.
Detention pond waived and a simple drainage narrative:
For the transmission line portion of the project, the applicant has submitted a drainage narrative stating that
the site meets drainage exception 5. Pipelines or transmission lines, excluding laydown yards, metering
sites, substations, and any other above ground appurtenances. Located in Sec. 8-11-40. Drainage Policy.
Final Drainage Reports and Certificates of Compliance, stamped and signed by a professional engineer
licensed in the State of Colorado shall be submitted.
Historic Flows:
The applicants will be required to maintain the historic drainage flows and run-off amounts that exist from
the property.
GRADING PERMIT
A Weld County Grading Permit will be required if disturbing more than 1 acre. Grading Permit applications
are accepted after the planning process is complete (plan recorded). An Early Release Request Form may
be entertained only after the applicant, Public Works and Planning Department have reviewed the referral
and surrounding property owner comments. The Early Release Request may or may not be granted
depending on referral comments and surrounding property owner concerns. Contact an Engineering
representative from the Development Review for more information.
A Construction Stormwater Permit is also required with the State for disturbing more than 1 acre. Contact:
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Water Quality Control Division, 303-692-3575.
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
A. A Road Maintenance Agreement - Construction is required at this location. Road maintenance
includes, but is not limited to, dust control and damage repair to specified haul routes. (Development
Review)
B. A Final Drainage Report and Certificate of Compliance stamped and signed by a Professional Engineer
registered in the State of Colorado is required for each laydown yard. (Development Review)
C. The plan shall be amended to delineate the following:
1. All local County roads, as designated on the Weld County Functional Classification Map require 60
feet of right-of-way at full buildout. The applicant shall delineate and label on the USR map the
future and existing right-of-way (along with the documents creating the existing right-of-way) and
the physical location of the road. All setbacks shall be measured from the edge of right-of-way.
Determine if the roads are maintained by Weld County. (Development Review)
2. All collector County roads, as designated on the Weld County Functional Classification Map require
80 feet of right-of-way at full buildout. The applicant shall delineate and label on the USR map the
future and existing right-of-way (along with the documents creating the existing right-of-way) and
the physical location of the road. All setbacks shall be measured from the edge of right-of-way.
Determine if the roads are maintained by Weld County. (Development Review)
3. All arterial County roads, as designated on the Weld County Functional Classification Map require
140 feet of right-of-way at full buildout. The applicant shall delineate and label on the USR map
the future and existing right-of-way (along with the documents creating the existing right-of-way)
and the physical location of the road. All setbacks shall be measured from the edge of right-of-
way. Determine if the roads are maintained by Weld County. (Development Review)
4. The County Highway (County Road 49) is designated on the Weld County Functional Classification
Map as an arterial road which typically requires 140 feet of right-of-way at full build out. The
alignment of the road widening project varies along the section line for the corridor. Contact
Development Review for the location of the existing and future right-of-way and easements and
delineate these on the USR map. (Development Review)
5. Show the CDOT right-of-way on the USR map along with the documents creating the right-of-way.
(Development Review)
6. Any portions of county roads, under the jurisdiction of a municipality, shall be shown and labeled
with the right-of-way specifics to include the creation documents. Also, include any access points
and the access approval of the municipality. (Development Review)
7. Show and label the approved access locations, approved access width and the appropriate turning
radii on the USR map. The applicant must obtain an access permit in the approved locations prior
to construction. ((Development Review)
8. Show the approved Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) access on the USR map and
label with the approved access permit number if applicable. (Development Review)
9. Show and label the approved tracking control on the USR map. (Development Review)
10. Show and label the entrance gate if applicable. An access approach that is gated shall be designed
so that the longest vehicle (including trailers) using the access can completely clear the traveled
way when the gate is closed. In no event, shall the distance from the gate to the edge of the traveled
surface be less than 35 feet. (Development Review)
11. Show and label the accepted drainage features. Stormwater ponds should be labeled as
"Stormwater Retention, No -Build or Storage Area" and shall include the calculated volume.
(Development Review)
12. Show and label the drainage flow arrows. (Development Review)
13. Show and label the parking and traffic circulation flow arrows showing how the traffic moves around
the property. (Development Review)
Prior to Construction:
A. The approved access and tracking control shall be constructed prior to on -site construction.
(Development Review)
B. If more than one (1) acre is to be disturbed, a Weld County Grading Permit will be required.
(Development Review)
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (NOTES ON THE USR MAP)
1. The property owner or operator shall be responsible for controlling noxious weeds on the site, pursuant
to Chapter 15, Article I and II, of the Weld County Code. (Development Review)
2. The access to the site shall be maintained to mitigate any impacts to the public road, including damages
and/or off -site tracking. (Development Review)
3. There shall be no parking or staging of vehicles on public roads. On -site parking shall be utilized.
(Development Review
4. Any work that may occupy and or encroach upon any County rights -of -way or easement shall acquire
an approved Right -of -Way Use Permit prior to commencement. (Development Review)
5. The Property Owner shall comply with all requirements provided in the executed Road Maintenance
Agreement. (Development Review)
6. The Road Maintenance Agreement for this site may be reviewed on an annual basis, including a site
visit and possible updates. (Development Review)
7. The historical flow patterns and runoff amounts on the site will be maintained. (Development Review)
8. Weld County is not responsible for the maintenance of onsite drainage related features. (Development
Review)
COUNTY
WELD COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND ENVIRONMENT
1555 North 17th Avenue, Greeley, CO 80631 www.weldhealth.org
Memorandum
To: Kim Ogle
From: Lauren Light, Environmental Health Services
Date: October 27, 2023
Re: USR23-0039 Applicant: Public Service Company of
Colorado DBA Xcel Energy
Environmental Health Services has reviewed this proposal for a Site Specific
Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for a Major Facility of a Public
Utility or Public Agency approximately 47.2 miles of new 345 -kilovolt (kV) double circuit
electric transmission line including the 58.7 acre laydown yard referred to as the Cervi
Yard and the 59.4 -acre laydown yard, referred to as the Sarchet Yard outside of
subdivisions and historic townsites in the A (Agricultural) Zone District.
Permanent water and sewer are not required as the transmission line is a temporary
construction use. Portable toilets and bottled water can be utilized during construction
of the transmission line and operation of the laydown yard. If the amount of disturbed
area exceeds 25 acres, an Air Pollution Emission Notice (APEN) is required.
We have no objections to the proposal; however, we do recommend that the following
requirements be incorporated into the permit as development standards:
1. All liquid and solid wastes (as defined in the Solid Wastes Disposal Sites and
Facilities Act, 30-20-100.5, C.R.S.) shall be stored and removed for final disposal
in a manner that protects against surface and groundwater contamination.
2. No permanent disposal of wastes shall be permitted at this site. This is not
meant to include those wastes specifically excluded from the definition of a solid
waste in the Solid Wastes Disposal Sites and Facilities Act, 30-20-100.5, C.R.S.
3. Waste materials shall be handled, stored, and disposed in a manner that controls
fugitive dust, fugitive particulate emissions, blowing debris, and other potential
nuisance conditions. The facility shall operate in accordance with Chapter 14,
Article 1 of the Weld County Code.
Health Administration
Vital Records
Tele: 970-304-6410
Fax: 970-304-6412
Public Health &
Clinical Services
Tele:970-304-6420
Fax: 970-304-6416
Environmental Health
Services
Tele:970-304-6415
Fax: 970-304-6411
Communication,
Education & Planning
Tele:970-304-6470
Fax: 970-304-6452
Emergency Preparedness
& Response
Tele:970-304-6470
Fax: 970-304-6452
Public Health
4. Fugitive dust and fugitive particulate emissions shall be controlled throughout
the duration of construction of the transmission line and until ground cover is
established. Uses on the substation property shall comply with the Colorado
Air Quality Commission's air quality regulations.
5. The applicant shall submit an Air Pollution Emission Notice (A.P.E.N.) and
Emissions Permit Application and obtain a permit from the Air Pollution Control
Division, Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, as
applicable.
6. Adequate toilet facilities and handwashing units shall be provided. Portable
toilets are acceptable. Portable toilets shall be serviced by a cleaner licensed
in Weld County, contain hand sanitizers and be screened from existing
adjacent residential properties and public rights -of -way. Portable toilets used
for construction of the transmission line shall be removed upon completion of
the transmission line.
7. The operation shall comply with all applicable rules and regulations of the State
and Federal agencies and the Weld County Code.
PROJECT:
MEMORANDUM
TO: Kim Ogle DATE: October 30, 2023
FROM: Diana Aungst, CFM
SUBJECT: USR23-0039, Public Service Co of Colo
A Site Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for a Major Facility of a Public Utility
or Public Agency approximately 47.2 miles of new 345 -kilovolt (kV) double circuit electric transmission line
including the 58.7 acre laydown yard referred to as the Cervi Yard and the 59.4 -acre laydown yard, referred
to as the Sarchet Yard outside of subdivisions and historic townsites in the A (Agricultural) Zone District.
PARCELs: Multiple
COMMENTS:
There are 4 floodplains that will be crossed: the South Platte, Box Elder, Lost Creek, and Sand Creek. The
South Platte River floodplain has a designated floodway so a No -Rise Certificate is required all others are
Approximate Zones. A Floodplain Development Permit (FHDP) will be required for each floodplain — for a
total of 4 FHDPs. There can be an increase of 0.3' in the Approximate Zone but 0.00 in the Floodway.
DELINEATE ON THE PLAT:
1. Show the floodplain and floodway (if applicable) boundaries on the map. Label the floodplain
boundaries with the FEMA Flood Zone and FEMA Map Panel Number or appropriate study.
(Department of Planning Services - Floodplain)
PRIOR TO CONSTRUCTION:
1. A Flood Hazard Development Permit is required to cross any 100 -year floodplain. (Department of
Planning Services - Floodplain)
PLAT NOTES:
1. A Flood Hazard Development Permit is required for all construction or development occurring in the
floodplain or floodway as delineated on Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) FIRM
Community Panel Map # 08123C -1905F dated September 17, 2020 (South Platte River Floodplain); #
08123C -1975E dated January 20, 2016 (Box Elder Creek Floodplain); # 08123C -2000E dated January
20, 2016 (Lost Creek Floodplain); and # 08123C -2025E dated January 20, 2016 (Sand Creek
Floodplain). Any development shall comply with all applicable Weld County requirements, Colorado
Water Conservation Board requirements as described in Rules and Regulations for Regulatory
Floodplains in Colorado, and FEMA regulations and requirements as described in 44 CFR parts 59, 60,
and 65. The FEMA definition of development is any man-made change to improved or unimproved
real estate, including by not limited to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading,
paving, excavation, drilling operations, or storage of equipment and materials. (Department of Planning
Services - Floodplain)
2. FEMA's floodplain boundaries may be updated at any time by FEMA. Prior to the start of any
development activities, the owner should contact Weld County to determine if the floodplain boundaries
have been modified. (Department of Planning Services - Floodplain)
Submit by Email
Weld County Referral
October 12, 2023
The Weld County Department of Planning Services has received the following item for review:
Applicant: Public Service Company of Colorado Case Number: USR23-0039
dba Xcel Energy
Please Reply By: November 9, 2023 Planner: Kim Ogle
Project: A Site Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for a Major Facility of a
Public Utility or Public Agency approximately 47.2 miles of new 345 -kilovolt (kV) double circuit
electric transmission line including the 58.7 acre laydown yard referred to as the Cervi Yard and the
59.4 -acre laydown yard, referred to as the Sarchet Yard outside of subdivisions and historic townsites
in the A (Agricultural) Zone District.
Parcel Number: Multiple Parcels
Legal Description: The Colorado Power Pathways proposed 345 kV Transmission Line route
originates at the existing Fort St. Vrain Generating Station (USR-1647) located in Section 10, T3N,
R67W. The new transmission line passes through the following Sections:
Sections 7, 8, 9, 16, 21, 25, 29, 33, 34 and 35, T3N, R66W;
Sections 31 and 32, T3N, R65W;
Section 31, T3N, R64W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, T2N, R65W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, T2N, R64W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, T2N, R63W;
Section 4, 5, 6, T2N, R62W;
Section 33, 34, 35, 36, T3N, R62W;
Section 26, 31, 32, 33, 34, T3N, R61W;
and terminates at the Weld County/Morgan County Line in Section 25, T3N, R61W of the 6th P.M.
Weld County, Colorado.
The application is submitted to you for review and recommendation. Any comments or
recommendation you consider relevant to this request would be appreciated. Please reply by the
above listed date so that we may give full consideration to your recommendation. Any response not
received before or on this date may be deemed to be a positive response to the Department of
Planning Services. If you have any further questions regarding the application, please call the Planner
associated with the request. Please note that new information may be added to applications under
review during the review process. If you desire to examine or obtain this additional information,
please call the Department of Planning Services.
❑ We have reviewed the request and find that it does / does not comply with our Comprehensive
Plan because:
ElWe have reviewed the request and find no conflicts with our interests.
nSee attached letter.
Jennifer Teeters Digitally signed by Jennifer Teeters
Signature Date: 2023.11.01 09:39:05 -06'00'
Date 11/1/2023
Agency Weld County Oil and Gas Energy Department
Weld County
Oil & Gas Energy Department
Referral Comments
Referring Agency: Weld County Department of Planning Services
Reference Number: USR23-0039
Associated Parcel: Multiple Parcels
OGED Reviewer: Jennifer Teeters
Review Date: November 1, 2023
The Staff of the Weld County Oil and Gas Energy Department (OGED) appreciates the opportunity to
comment on the captioned planning case. Staff has completed review of the proposal and have no
conflicts with the proposed activity. We have included additional comments below:
1. There are several active or proposed 1041 WOGLA Permits on the associated parcel. There
are several oil and gas well sites in the area surrounding the parcel. The Laydown Yard crosses
LAP19-0007 on parcel 121109000009. The Laydown Yard crosses LAP19-0033 on parcel
130505300013 and 130509100007. The Laydown Yard crosses LAP19-0002 on parcel
130509100007.
2. The parcels includes sixteen (16) active oil and gas wells, listed in Table 1 below. OGED
requests that the Applicant coordinate operations in proximity to existing wells and
production facilities with the operator(s) of these wells.
API
Operator
Well Title
Well
Status
Parcel
05-123-31244
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
McGuckin H 32-31
SI
121332200033
05-123-35791
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Cannon 14N-E3HZ
PR
130703000013
05-123-35786
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Cannon 36N-W3HZX
PR
130703000013
05-123-35789
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Cannon 36N-E3HZ
PR
130703000013
05-123-35787
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Cannon 15N-W3HZ
PR
130703000013
05-123-36351
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dechant 13N-1HZ
PR
121336000005
05-123-36349
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dechant 35N-W1HZ
PR
121336000005
05-123-36352
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dechant 35N-E1HZ
PR
121336000005
05-123-36419
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dechant 14C-1HZ
PR
121336000005
05-123-36350
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dechant 36N-W1HZ
PR
121336000005
05-123-36381
Noble Energy Inc
Dechant 37N-E1HZ
PR
121336100002
05-123-24794
Noble Energy Inc
Waste Management
USX Y 3-9
TA
121336100002
05-123-39197
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dolph 4N-1HZ
PR
130901300003
05-123-39198
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dolph 4C-1HZ
PR
130901300003
05-123-39196
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dolph 3N-1HZ
PR
130901300003
05-123-29573
Kerr McGee Oil & Gas Onshore LP
Dolph 27-1HZX
SI
130901300003
3. The parcels includes six (6) plugged and abandoned (PA) wells listed in Table 2 below.
Additional information regarding these plugged and abandoned wells is available from the
Energy & Carbon Management Commission (ECMC). OGED recommends that the Applicant
review this information and contact the responsible operator regarding well infrastructure
that may have been abandoned in place prior to conducting operations in proximity to the
wells.
API
Operator
Well Title
Well Status
Parcel
05-123-29665
Noble Energy Inc
Moser X 03-27
PA
121334100003
05-123-31900
Noble Energy Inc
Cannon X 02-29
PA
121335000004
05-123-31677
Noble Energy Inc
Cannon X 02-27
PA
121335000004
05-123-36382
Noble Energy Inc
Dechant 37N-W1HZ
PA
121336100002
05-123-12141
PDC Energy Inc
L F Ranch 2-4
PA
121336100002
05-123-08669
Noble Energy Inc
State 41-5
PA
130105100022
4. The USR lands may include additional oil and gas related infrastructure, such as off -location
flowlines or pipeline which are a use by right and not regulated by Weld County. OGED
requests that the applicant reviews flowline data available from the ECMC map viewer and
utilize Colorado 811 prior to any excavation activities.
These comments and recommendations are based upon the review of the application materials
submitted by the applicant and other relevant information available on the E -Permit site.
Submit by Email
Weld County Referral
October 12, 2023
The Weld County Department of Planning Services has received the following item for review:
Applicant: Public Service Company of Colorado Case Number USR23-0039
dba Xcel Energy
Please Reply By: November 9, 2023 Planner Kim Ogle
Project: A Site Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for a Major Facility of a
Public Utility or Public Agency approximately 47.2 miles of new 345 -kilovolt (kV) double circuit
electric transmission line including the 58.7 acre laydown yard referred to as the Cervi Yard and the
59.4 -acre laydown yard, referred to as the Sarchet Yard outside of subdivisions and historic townsites
in the A (Agricultural) Zone District.
Parcel Number Multiple Parcels
Legal Description: The Colorado Power Pathways proposed 345 kV Transmission Line route
originates at the existing Fort St. Vrain Generating Station (USR-1647) located in Section 10, T3N,
R67W. The new transmission line passes through the following Sections:
Sections 7, 8, 9, 16, 21, 25, 29, 33, 34 and 35, T3N, R66W;
Sections 31 and 32, T3N, R6SW;
Section 31, T3N, R64W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, T2N, R65W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, T2N, R64W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, T2N, R63W;
Section 4, 5, 6, T2N, R62W;
Section 33, 34, 35, 36, T3N, R62W;
Section 26, 31, 32, 33, 34, T3N, R61W;
and terminates at the Weld County/Morgan County Line in Section 25, T3N, R61W of the 6th P.M.
Weld County, Colorado.
The application is submitted to you for review and recommendation. Any comments or
recommendation you consider relevant to this request would be appreciated. Please reply by the
above listed date so that we may give full consideration to your recommendation. Any response not
received before or on this date may be deemed to be a positive response to the Department of
Planning Services. If you have any further questions regarding the application, please call the Planner
associated with the request. Please note that new information may be added to applications under
review during the review process. If you desire to examine or obtain this additional information,
please call the Department of Planning Services.
1
We have reviewed the request and find that it does / does not comply with our Comprehensive
Plan because:
We have reviewed the request and find no conflicts with our interests.
See attached letter.
Signature
Agency
wit,S 2
f:.
thi'EST GREELEY, CONSERVATION DISTRICT
Date
Figures
Figure1: Project Overview
Figure 2: Vicinity Map — Project Area and Facilities Overview
cOLORADO'S POWER PATHWAY
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Legend
CO Fort St. Vrain Expansion
Proposed Transmission Route
ale Segment 1
Pathway Segment 1 to be Placed in
Existing Transmission Line Corridor
Existing 230kV Transmisson Line to be Relocated
Weld County - Use by Special Review
Existing Electric Infrastructure
(WFLD 2021)
-6- 115WV Transmission Line
-�-- 230kV Transmission Line
—+-� 345kV Transmission Line
Transportation
(COOT 2021, FITS 2020)
Interstate
U.S. Highway
State Highway
Local Road
Railroad
Boundary
(Coot 2021, DOLA 2021)
Municipal Boundary
I County
Hydrology
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Waterbody
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Vicinity Map -- Project Area and Facilities Overview
COLORADO'S POWER PATHWAY
akar
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Legend
0 Fort St. Vrain Expansion
Proposed Transmission Route
S Segment 1
t:tr Pathway Segment 1 to be Placed in
Existing Transmission Line Corridor
Existing 230kV Transmisson Line to be Relocated
MI Weld County - Use by Special Review
1-----r
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I Residence
( Attosofl 2021. review of PIMP SOW
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a Interstate
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Local Road
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--'• 115kV Transmission Line
—e— 230kV Transmission Line
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Weld County Sheet 1
COLORADO'S POWER PATHWAY
Legend
Fort St. Vrain Expansion
Proposed Transmission Route
Segment 1
Pathway Segment 1 to be Placed in
Existing Transmission Line Corridor
Existing 230kV Transmtsson Line to be Relocated
Weld County - Use by Special Review
Fort St. Vrain Substation Expansion Area
Residence
(FA 'crown 2021, nn inw of NAIP sedan]
Boundary
(COOT 2021, BOLA 21121)
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P-•• I
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State Highway
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(H1FLO 2021)
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Weld County Sheet 3
Submit by Email
Weld County Referral
October 17, 2023
The Weld County Department of Planning Services has received the following item for review:
Applicant: H2S2 LLC, c/o ECO Services, LLC Case Number: USR23-0043
Please Reply By: November 14, 2023 Planner Kim Ogle
Project: A Site -Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for for Oil & Gas
Support and Service (fabricating, installing and maintaining containment liners for oil and gas tank
battery operations) outside of subdivisions and historic townsites in the A (Agricultural) Zone District
Parcel Number 071132100006-R8952875 Legal: Lot A, RECX17-0186 being part of the S2NE4
Section 32, Township 7 North, Range 64 West of the 6th P.M.,
County of Weld, State of Colorado of the 6th P.M., Weld County, Colorado.
Location: West of and adjacent to County Road 53; approximately 0.5 miles north of County Road 74.
The application is submitted to you for review and recommendation. Any comments or
recommendation you consider relevant to this request would be appreciated. Please reply by the
above listed date so that we may give full consideration to your recommendation. Any response not
received before or on this date may be deemed to be a positive response to the Department of
Planning Services. If you have any further questions regarding the application, please call the
Planner associated with the request. Please note that new information may be added to applications
under review during the review process. If you desire to examine or obtain this additional
information, please call the Department of Planning Services.
We have reviewed the request and find that it does / does not comply with our
Comprehensive Plan because:
We have reviewed the request and find no conflicts with our interests.
See attached letter. NODate V. 13 Z0203
1
WEST GREELEY CONS RVATICN DISTRIC1
Agency
Signature
Weld County Planning Dept. PO Box 758, Greeley, CO 80632 Tel:(970)-400-6100 Fax:(970)-304-6498
West Greeley Conservation District
(970) 356-8097
Below
is
list
the
their
limitations
to the USDA,
Weld County Soil
Survey.
a
of soils and
according
Map
Shallow
Dwellings
Dwellings with
Small
Septic
Tank
Prime
Farm T
S
mbol
Soil
Name
Soil
Texture
Excavations
without
basements
Commercial
Absor
tion
Land
if
Additional
.
Comments
56
Renohill
Clay
Loam
Severe
No
58
Shingle
Loam
Severe
Severe
Severe
Severe Severe
No
.
Y
•-
i
•
The West Greeley Conservation District recommends
356-8097. If you or the
contact our office at (970)GRE
that
applicant
the
applicant does an on site soils test prior
have any questions please feel free to call
to any construction. For a more complete soils description consult the Weld County Soil Survey or
office.
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.
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Produced by the West Greeley Conservation District
Weld County Referral
Y
October 12, 2023
Submit by Email
The Weld County Department of Planning Services has received the following item for review:
Applicant: Public Service Company of Colorado Case Number: USR23-0039
dba Xcel Energy
Please Reply By: November 9, 2023 Planner: Kim Ogle
Project: A Site Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review Permit for a Major Facility of a
Public Utility or Public Agency approximately 47.2 miles of new 345 -kilovolt (kV) double circuit
electric transmission line including the 58.7 acre laydown yard referred to as the Cervi Yard and the
59.4 -acre laydown yard, referred to as the Sarchet Yard outside of subdivisions and historic townsites
in the A (Agricultural) Zone District.
Parcel Number: Multiple Parcels
Legal Description: The Colorado Power Pathways proposed 345 kV Transmission Line route
originates at the existing Fort St. Vrain Generating Station (USR-1647) located in Section 10, T3N,
R67W. The new transmission line passes through the following Sections:
Sections 7, 8, 9, 16, 21, 25, 29, 33, 34 and 35, T3N, R66W;
Sections 31 and 32, T3N, R65W;
Section 31, T3N, R64W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, T2N, R65W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, T2N, R64W;
Section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7, T2N, R63W;
Section 4, 5, 6, T2N, R62W;
Section 33, 34, 35, 36, T3N, R62W;
Section 26, 31, 32, 33, 34, T3N, R61W;
and terminates at the Weld County/Morgan County Line in Section 25, T3N, R61W of the 6th P.M.
Weld County, Colorado.
The application is submitted to you for review and recommendation. Any comments or
recommendation you consider relevant to this request would be appreciated. Please reply by the
above listed date so that we may give full consideration to your recommendation. Any response not
received before or on this date may be deemed to be a positive response to the Department of
Planning Services. If you have any further questions regarding the application, please call the Planner
associated with the request. Please note that new information may be added to applications under
review during the review process. If you desire to examine or obtain this additional information,
please call the Department of Planning Services.
We have reviewed the request and find that it does / does not comply with our Comprehensive
Plan because:
T
P
F -
We have reviewed the request and find no conflicts with our interests.
See attached letter.
Signature Jeff be { (%Gf7�—Tl�U�Ec-CUUrdGIZ ,r
Agency The Farmers Reservoir and Irrigation Company
Date 10/17/2023
The Farmers Reservoir and Irrigation Company
80 South 27th Avenue
Brighton, CO 80601
PH: 303-659-7373 / FX: 303-659-6077
TO:
DATE:
FRICO Project#
Kim Ogle
October 17, 2023
Referrals Weld County
EMAILED: October 17, 2023
EMAILED TO:
kogle@weld.gov
APPLICANT: Public Service Company of CO dba Xcel Energy
RE: Planning Use
CASE #: USR23-0039
DEAR Ms./Mrs. Ogle:
I wish to submit the following information regarding the above referenced project.
X The concerns of Farmers Reservoir and Irrigation Company are in the area of
encroachment to the Right of Way of the canal. FRICO requires a minimum of 25' on
each side of the canal for a maintenance road plus the distance to the toe of the ditch
embankment. The boundaries of the Right of Way must be agreed upon.
X Drainage is another concern that must be addressed as FRICO does not allow any
developed storm flow into our canals. This will apply if any development happens.
X Property concerns need to be resolved.
X No construction of any structure can be put on our ROW. No use of any sort
including pedestrian or vehicle on our ROW is approved.
X Please send drainage study and additional information regarding your project so
that we may complete our review and that review criteria can be sent to you, if
applicable.
X FRICO does not accept retention ponds adjacent to our facilities, however, we
may grant a variance with submittal of application and engineering deposit for review of
drainage plan and other documents.
X Canal road may not be used for access without approval and executed
agreement.
X FRICO will require a license agreement
X FRICO will require an access permit
X FRICO will require a seepage agreement
FRICO No comments on application/proposal
X We request to comment again.
The applicant has or X has not completed a Project Review Application and
submitted a deposit for review fees with the Ditch Company. In addition to the above
comments, FRICO's comments are limited to this set of plans.
Please email should you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Cheryl Plucker
Cheryl@farmersres.com
720-297-0877
Testers '°lids#ream
January 12, 2024
WA E-MAIL
Weld County Planning Commission
Attn: Kim Ogle, Principal Planner
kogle@weld.gov
WES DJ GATHERLING LLC AND WES WATTENBERG OIL COMPLEX LLC
COMMENTS CONCERNING THE PROPOSED XCEL POWER PATHWAY PROJECT
IN WELD COUNTY
Re: USR23-0039 and 1MUSR23-99-1236
Applications for Site Specific Development Plan and Use By Special Review Permit for a
1041 Major Facility of a Public Utility
To Weld County Planning Commission:
WES DJ Gathering LLC, formerly Kerr-McGee Gathering, LLC, ("WDJG") and WES
Wattenberg Oil Complex LLC ("WWOC', collectively with WDJG, "WES") submit the following
comments in advance of the January 16, 2024 Planning Commission Hearing on the above -
referenced USR and 1041 Permit Applications for Xcel's proposed Power Pathway Project
("Proposed Project') in Weld County. These Comments are intended for Planning Commission
and Board of County Commissioners consideration. Please add these comments to the record for
this proceeding.
WES submits these comments to protect its interests as a property owner and pipeline
operator in Weld County. Unless mitigated, the Proposed Project will materially interfere with
WES's pipeline ROWs in Weld County and cause foreseeable adverse impacts to its pipeline
system resulting from Alternating Current ("AC') interference from the high voltage transmission
lines.
WES urges the Commission and Board to require, as a condition of approval for Xcel's
permit applications, that Xcel: (1) continue to cooperate with WES on an AC interference study
once Xcel finalizes the route for the Proposed Project; and (2) execute a Reimbursement and
Encroachment Agreement with WES which would sets forth Xcel's obligation to reimburse WES
for AC interference study and mitigation measures and a process for Xcel and WES to use moving
forward regarding construction and interference with WES ROWs.
I. Background
WES operates approximately 1,950 miles of pipelines in Weld County that gather and
transport oil, natural gas, and water on approximately 8,550 active rights -of -way, easements, or
similar property interests in the County (collectively, "ROWs"). WES's pipeline operations are
critical to the development and production of oil and gas in Weld County and the continued success
of the oil and gas industry in the County. WES employs 155 Weld County citizens.
Weld County Planning Commission
January 12, 2024
Page 2
WES is a longstanding pipeline operator in Weld County with a demonstrated commitment
to pipeline safety and stewardship and protection of the lands on which it operates. WES's
operations contribute to the economic prosperity of Weld County. WES appreciates its
longstanding relationship and partnership with the County. WES takes seriously its commitment
to the construction, operation, and maintenance of its pipelines in a manner that ensures their long-
term safety and integrity.
Xcel first notified WDJG, by letter, of the Proposed Project and its potential effect on
existing WDJG pipelines in Weld County on October 19, 2023. WES responded to the letter on
November 3, 2023. Since that time the land and technical teams for Xcel and WES have exchanged
additional information regarding the Project's impacts on WES. WES appreciates Xcel's
cooperation to date. WES has requested that Xcel both continue to cooperate with WES on further
evaluation of the effects of the Project on WES pipelines and agree to compensate WES for
necessary studies and mitigation measures.
2. The USR and 1041 Permit Applications do not satisfy Weld County's permit approval
criteria without appropriate mitigation for pipeline impacts.
The Proposed Project must: (1) protect the "health, welfare and safety of the citizens of the
County"; (2) "not unduly interfere with existing easements, rights -of -way, other utilities, canals,
mineral claims, or roads"; and (3) include a "satisfactory program to mitigate and minimize
adverse impacts." Weld County Code § 21-3-340. The Proposed Project must also be "be
compatible with existing and allowed uses in the surrounding area" and "not result in a substantial
adverse impact on the property in the vicinity of the subject property." Weld County Code § 23-2-
285.
The Proposed Project will not meet these criteria unless Xcel appropriately supports the
study and mitigation efforts needed to help prevent the foreseeable adverse impacts to WES's
pipeline systems from the AC interference caused by the proposed high voltage transmission lines.
a. AC interference will unduly interfere with pipeline operations, presents
potential public safety considerations, and must be mitigated.
The Proposed Project will result in the location of high voltage transmission lines running
parallel to and crossing WES's existing pipeline infrastructure. The Applications indicate the
Proposed Project will include 71 new miles of new 345 -kilovolt high voltage transmission lines.
Initial studies indicate these lines will cross WES's pipelines in at least 30 to 50 sections and run
parallel to WES pipelines within 1,000 feet in many other sections_
High voltage transmission lines present a known risk of AC interference with pipelines.
Xcel acknowledged this in its October 19 letter to WES. The Proposed Project's proximity to, and
co -location along WES's pipeline infrastructure, will result in foreseeable AC interference.
Without proper mitigation, the AC current produced by the high voltage transmission lines would
increase the level and speed of corrosion of WES's pipelines, which can result in pipeline failure —
an unacceptable outcome.
Weld County Planning Commission
January 12, 2024
Page 3
There are also potential public safety concerns beyond increased corrosion. A person in
close proximity to a pipeline where AC voltage is present is, without proper mitigation, at risk of
electrical shock. Because of this, unmitigated pipelines in proximity to high voltage transmission
lines present a health and safety hazard to WES employees and contractors, and to the general
public.
Following industry standards, WES intends to further study the potential impact of the
Proposed Project once additional details on the route and construction are known. WES will then
take the necessary mitigation measures, in accordance with industry standards, to prevent the risk
of corrosion from powerline AC interference.
b. Construction of the Proposed Project will cause additional interference with
WES ROWs.
Construction and maintenance of the Proposed Project also will cause direct construction
impacts that will unduly interfere with WES's ROWs. Construction equipment used by Xcel or its
contractors to construct and maintain the Proposed Project presents risks to the integrity of the
pipelines during construction.
A mandate to call 811 to locate lines is not sufficient to ensure adequate time for planning
around potential damage during construction and maintenance. WES will need to determine where
and when the pipelines will be crossed to eliminate risks of damage to the pipeline and the resulting
interruption to operations if a pipeline is damaged.
Additionally, because the Proposed Project will require installation of mitigation measures
to protect WES 's pipelines from AC interference, WES anticipates needing landowner approval to
install the necessary mitigation. WES may need to compensate these landowners to obtain the
necessary approval to install the mitigation and account for additional surface disturbance and
impacts.
None of this work or expense would be necessary without Xcel's Proposed Project. This
presents an undue interference with WES's ROWs because the Proposed Project may require
additional negotiations with, and payments to, landowners regarding existing ROWs. The County
should ensure that Xcel compensates WES for all increased costs resulting from the installation of
necessary mitigation measures.
******
To address the WES mitigation measures required to prevent adverse impacts from the
Proposed Project on WES's pipelines and public safety concerns and to make the Applications
compatible with existing uses, WDJG and WWOC jointly request that the Commission and Board
condition approval of the Applications on:
1. Requirement that Xcel cooperate with WES's AC interference study once Xcel
finalizes the route for the Proposed Project in Weld County; and
-:.exas 77380
Weld County Planning Commission
January 12, 2024
Page 4
2. Requirement that Xcel execute a Reimbursement and Encroachment Agreement with
WES which sets forth (a) a process for Xcel and WES to use moving forward regarding
construction and interference with WES rights -of -way and (b) Xcel's obligation to
reimburse WES for AC interference study and mitigation measures.
We look forward to working with the County and Xcel to ensure County land use planning
goals are met and that all safety and health concerns with the Proposed Project are adequately
addressed.
Please contact me at 303.357.7790 or Jayson.VanShura@westernmidstream.com if you
have any questions or comments about this matter.
Sincerely,
WES I G.� ering LLC
n L. VanShura
d Manager, Rockies
Cc: Sherry Bursey, Managing Senior Counsel
From: Shepherd - CDOT, Robert (Mike) <mike.shepherd@state.co.us>
Sent: Wednesday, November 8, 2023 10:17 AM
To: Kim Ogle <kogle@weld.gov>
Cc: Allyson Young - CDOT <allyson.young@state.co.us>
Subject: USR23-0039-Xcel Energy -85-76
Caution: This email originated from outside of Weld County Government. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Hi Kim,
We have worked with Xcel in other counties for this same transmission line. CDOT requests that they get in touch
with us to require the appropriate Access permits for any time they are accessing off of the state right of way. If you
have any questions please let me know.
Mike Shepherd
Assistant Access Manager / Utility Permits
COLORADO
Department of Transportation
P (970)324-4823
10601 West 10th Street, Greeley, CO 80634
Mike.shepherd@state.co.us I http://codot.gov/ I www.cotrip.org
From: Matz - DNR, Michael <michael.matz@state.co.us>
Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2023 2:58 PM
To: Kim Ogle <kogle@weld.gov>
Cc: loana Comaniciu <ioana.comaniciu@state.co.us>
Subject: USR23-0039 Referral Response
Caution: This email originated from outside of Weld County Government. Do not click links or open attachments unless you
recognize the sender and know the content is safe.
Good Afternoon Kim Ogle,
We have received the proposal for a Site Specific Development Plan and Use by Special Review for Case
No. USR23-0039 from Public Service Company of Colorado (doing business as Xcel Energy).
The Applicant is requesting a permit for the construction of 47.2 miles of new 345 Ky electric
transmission lines, re-routing of an existing transmission line, and an equipment yard addition in Weld
County.
This referral does not appear to qualify as a "subdivision" as defined in section 30-28-101(10)(a), C.R.S.
Therefore, pursuant to the State Engineer's March 4, 2005 and March 11, 2011 memorandums to
county planning directors, this office only performed a cursory review of the referral information.
Upon review, the applicant intends to use trucked -in water as a supply source during construction for
dust suppression. The application mentions water used during construction will be obtained from a
local, permitted source, however no specific water service provider or well permit was listed in the
application.
Without knowing more information about the water supply source to be used during construction, our
office is unable to comment on the water supply for this referral. If the applicant provides specific
information regarding the source of water during construction, our office will review that
documentation and provide comments as needed.
Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.
Best Regards,
Mike Matz
Water Resources Engineer
COLORADO
Division of Water Resources
Department of Natural Resources
P 303-866-3581 x 8241
1313 Sherman St., Suite 818, Denver, CO 80203
michael.matz@state.co.us I www.colorado.gov/water
Hello