Updated June 2026
The City and County of Denver and Xcel Energy partner to deliver essential public infrastructure and utility services to residents, businesses, and public spaces. Every 20 years, the city/county and Xcel negotiate a franchise agreement for approval by voters. Significant public benefits delivered through the city's partnership with Xcel include:
- Efficient public construction projects that reduce costs and minimize disruptions;
- Energy assistance and efficiency programs that help residents manage costs;
- Repairs to traffic signals and streetlights that keep Denver communities safe.
The current 20-year franchise agreement expires in 2026, so the expectation that a new agreement will be presented for vote on the November 2026 ballot. For updates, visit the website page
HERE
This matter is being negotiated by government officials and other stakeholder groups. Cherrry Creek East Association is making use of the opportunity to advocate regarding the Xcel substation property on 4 N. Monroe Street. In the past, Xcel responded to concerns about the appearance of the site by creating a concrete housing structure around it. The remaining grounds contained grass, trees and shrubs which were eventually removed. Currently, the property grounds are covered with rocks and paving materials. Many CCE residents have expressed a desire for more attention to aesthetics such as landscaping. With this in mind, a CCEA board member provided comments at a June 30, 2026 Public Hearing of the city's s Governance and Intergovernmental Relations Committee which was considering the Xcel lease renewal. The gist of the comment is a request to add language aimed at encouraging a commitment to stewardship to neighborhoods. Xcel has about 50 substations in Denver, so language such as this could benefit Cherry Creek residents as well as those in other neighborhoods.
View the full verified comments to Council Matter #26-0970
HERE
