The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has announced several opportunities for public engagement and comment in January. The PUC emphasized its commitment to involving community members in its decision-making process, stating, “The PUC is committed to informing and engaging the public in the matters before the Commission, and values perspectives from impacted community members, which is critical in decision-making.”
Public participation can take place through various formats, including submitting comments online or by email at dora_puc_comments@state.co.us. The commission also maintains a calendar of upcoming events and meetings on its website.
On January 7, the 9-1-1 Services Enterprise Board will hold its monthly meeting virtually from 3 PM to 4 PM.
A virtual public comment hearing is scheduled for January 8 regarding rulemaking for wayside system detectors under Proceeding No. 25R-0408R. This rulemaking aims to make permanent certain reporting requirements for railroads operating mainlines in Colorado. Railroads must submit annual reports on their wayside detector systems, including details about type, location, spacing, and how issues are addressed. Temporary rules required the first such reports by January 1, 2025. Another proposed rule seeks to minimize blocked crossings and provides guidance for emergency response when crossings are obstructed.
On January 14 at 9 AM, the Commission will accept virtual public comments during its second weekly meeting of the month. These meetings are streamed live on the PUC’s YouTube page due to ongoing building construction. Comments cannot address matters currently before the commission or topics listed on that meeting’s agenda.
The PUC will also take public comment on Xcel Energy’s Gas Infrastructure Plan (Proceeding No. 25A-0220G) on January 20 from 5 PM to 6:30 PM via a remote hearing. The plan outlines upgrades to Xcel Energy’s gas system between 2025 and 2030 and includes approximately sixty projects. It also seeks approval for two specific projects: the Louisville to Rollins Pass Project and the Speer Canal Interconnects Project.
An in-person public comment hearing is set for January 26 regarding Xcel Energy’s siting permit appeals for Segment 5 of its Colorado Power Pathway project (Proceeding No. 25A-0355E). The event will be held at Swink Hall in Calhan from 5 PM to 7 PM and will offer light refreshments, a children’s activity table, as well as ASL and Spanish interpretation services.
Written comments can be submitted using an online form or by mail to the Commission’s offices at Colorado Public Utilities Commission, 1560 Broadway, Suite 250, Denver, CO 80202. Oral comments may be left by calling (303) 869-3490 with options available in English and Spanish.
Information about all hearings and interpreting services can be found on the PUC Calendar or https://puc.colorado.gov/puccalendar. Requests for ASL or Spanish interpretation should be made two weeks prior to each hearing by contacting Megan.Castle@state.co.us.
