Full Breakdown
Xcel Energy's Massive Turbine Transport Causes Traffic Disruptions in Northern Colorado
3/15/2026, 1:07:13 AM
Overview of the Transport Operation
On Saturday, March 14, 2026, Xcel Energy will transport a massive combustion turbine weighing over 1.25 million pounds from Loveland to the Fort St. Vrain Generating Station in Platteville, Colorado. The transport, which begins at 7 a.m., will involve a specialized convoy moving at a maximum speed of 5 mph, significantly impacting traffic along U.S. Highway 287, Colorado Highway 66, and Interstate 25. The Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) has announced full closures on Interstate 25 at the Longmont exit from approximately 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. to facilitate the crossing of the oversized load.
Route and Logistics
The turbine, which is part of Xcel Energy's $500 million investment to expand its energy output, will follow a carefully planned route. It will travel south on Madison Avenue in Loveland, then proceed along U.S. 287 toward Longmont, before crossing Interstate 25 and continuing east on Colorado 66. The entire transport setup measures over 300 feet in length and stands just over 19 feet tall. To accommodate this load, local traffic signals have been adjusted, and a team of 13 skilled workers from the heavy hauling company Mammoet will oversee the operation.
Implications for Traffic
The transport is expected to cause significant delays, with road closures scheduled as follows:
- U.S. Highway 287 from Loveland to Longmont: 7:30 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Colorado Highway 66 from Longmont to Interstate 25: 10:45 a.m. to noon.
- Interstate 25 (both directions) south of Colorado Highway 66: 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Colorado Highway 66 east of Interstate 25 to Platteville: 12:45 p.m. to 2 p.m.
Travelers are advised to use U.S. Highway 85 as an alternative route during these closures.
Official Statements & Responses
Hans Rodvik, area manager for Xcel Energy, emphasized the significance of the transport, stating, “It is going to add about 200 megawatts of capacity to that plant, making it our biggest plant in Colorado.” The turbine will contribute to Xcel's Clean Energy Plan, which aims to integrate a mix of natural gas, wind, and solar energy to meet the growing energy demands of Colorado.
Criticism & Opposition
While the transport is crucial for expanding energy capacity, some local residents have expressed concerns about the traffic disruptions and potential safety hazards associated with moving such a large load through populated areas. The CDOT has acknowledged these concerns and is working to minimize the impact on local traffic.
What's Next
Following this transport, Xcel Energy plans to move an additional turbine and two generators in the coming weeks, although specific dates for these subsequent transports have yet to be confirmed. The completion of this project is expected to enhance the energy infrastructure in Colorado, with operational turbines projected to begin generating power by 2027.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s a very large load,” — Michelle Aguayo, Spokesperson for Xcel Energy
- “If it was humanly possible to move the world — if it was possible — our equipment could do it,” — Jake Moore, Mammoet Crew Member
- “They’re over a million pounds … They weigh so much, they can’t go over our bridges.” — Jared Fiel, CDOT Spokesperson
