Keeley Civil Spotlight: Data Center Substation

Keeley Civil Energy has built a deep portfolio of partnerships and substation experience. When one of our trusted partners called upon Keeley Civil Energy for a Data Center Substation in Colorado, the team stepped up to the plate to complete this project, adhering to the highest quality and safety standards.

The scope of this project included civil and foundation construction of a 230kV / 34.5kV substation switchyard, including five XFMR foundations & oil containments, 65 drilled shaft foundations ranging in diameters from 2.5’ – 6’, three circuit breaker pads, installation of two separate XMFR fire walls, and a 93x24x8.5 control house vault foundation. Along with the foundation work, the Civil scope initially included the excavation of 2,000cyd to a depth of 15’ for the control house vault foundation. However, due to issues with the pad, the scope grew into stripping all fill to original grade and reinstalling and compacting to bring the pad up to the correct elevation. Lastly, the Keeley team was asked to take over the SWPPP installation and maintenance, including installation of three 70x20 sediment traps, three diversion ditches totaling 790’, over a half mile of slit fence, and the removal & hauling of 70,000cyd+ of stockpiled soils.

One of the most significant challenges on this project has been a continuous evolution of the scope since initial contract negotiation. There have been daily to weekly scope changes and additions, but the team has worked hard to keep up with an increased level of manpower and equipment needs, thus keeping the project running smoothly. Since the Keeley team has been involved since the very beginning, they were able to assist with design changes and constructibility reviews, implementing innovative solutions. Finally, the team has safely navigated an unfamiliar geographical area, adapting to the ever-changing environment with an unmatched focus on safety.

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