Learn more about the project from Holy Cross Energy staff.
Wildfire remains a major risk to our community, and we are committed to reducing that risk and improving long-term electric reliability.
This summer (2026), with the funding from the U.S. Department of Energy, HCE will underground overhead power lines to enhance our wildfire protection and resilience. Known as the WARN project (Wildfire Assessment and Resilience for Networks), this grant will allow us to underground approximately 4.5 miles of overhead power lines with underground electric infrastructure.
Overhead power lines in the project area will be retired and replaced with a modern underground distribution system. The addition and undergrounding of these power lines will:
Design & Permitting
Construction
Energization of Underground System
We plan to begin this project in early summer 2026, with work completed in phases over several years, tentatively in 2029, depending on weather and field conditions.
Scheduling, construction timelines, and overall completion may be affected by a variety of factors. Work will occur primarily within road corridors and existing utility easements.
Advanced wildfire modeling identified the Crystal Springs area, an area outside of Carbondale, Colorado, as high risk due to dense vegetation, long overhead spans, and its location within the Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI).
We understand that undergrounding our lines may impact your property, daily commute, and/or power service. We are committed to working with you to plan accordingly and make the work as manageable as possible.
Construction will occur in phases and may include excavation, equipment installation, traffic control, and brief planned outages. All disturbed areas will be restored to equal or better condition, including road repairs, revegetation, and drainage protection.
During construction, residents may notice:
Impacted members will receive customized communications with information directly related to your property. In addition, we will communicate directly with members before any service interruptions. Members may contact project lead for any comments or concerns or submit questions on the form located here:
Max Doose , Engineer
Direct: 970-947-5415
Email: mdoose@holycross.com
We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to strengthen the electric system for the benefit of our community.