Denver preservationists seek landmark status for Zuni Plant

Preservationists in Denver are working to save the Zuni Steam Plant, a historic site that is over a century old. They have filed for landmark designation to protect it from being demolished. This announcement was made by Historic Denver on Friday. The Zuni Steam Plant is located on the banks of the South Platte River and was once vital for powering downtown Denver. There have been ongoing discussions about its future between Xcel Energy, the city officials, and local community members. Denver had previously declined to buy the plant due to high cleanup costs, which has led to uncertainty about its fate. Xcel Energy plans to put the steam plant on the market for 30 days before moving ahead with its demolition plans. A representative for the company had stated that it needed to proceed with the site. The Zuni Steam Plant is seen as an important part of the riverfront area, which city leaders want to develop into a community hub. Other significant locations nearby include Ball Arena and Empower Field. Historic Denver's CEO, John Deffenbaugh, suggested that the plant could be successfully repurposed like other industrial buildings in the area. As of Friday evening, Xcel Energy had not responded to requests for comments on the situation.