CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The Laramie County Commissioners approved a detailed agreement Tuesday with TGE Wyoming 222 LLC to share the costs of reconstructing County Road 203, commonly known as Chalk Bluff Road. This reconstruction is a key condition of the Cowboy Solar Site Plan’s approval, supporting the renewable energy project while addressing local infrastructure needs.
The memorandum of understanding, or MOU, outlines specific responsibilities for both TGE and the county. The total cost of the project is estimated at $14.5 million, with TGE contributing $12 million and the county allocating $2.5 million.
“This MOU does a good job of capturing the intent of the commissioners,” said Commissioner Linda Heath during the meeting. Commissioner Troy Thompson emphasized the importance of improving local infrastructure, adding, “Let’s move forward and get Chalk Bluff Road rebuilt, which is much, much needed.”
TGE’s Contributions and Responsibilities
TGE’s responsibilities include:
- Funding: TGE will provide $12 million, covering design and construction costs. Design costs, already underway, amount to $1.02 million.
- Design Plans: The company will finalize and submit road design plans for county approval. These plans must meet Laramie County’s Public Works standards and specifications.
- Construction Coordination: Limited solar project construction may begin before the road is completed, but TGE cannot deliver major equipment, such as electrical components, until the road reconstruction is substantially finished.
- Timely Notice: TGE must issue a “Final Investment Decision Notice” before providing its lump-sum payment to the county.
- Cost Overage Support: If construction costs exceed available funds, TGE will share additional expenses with the county, capped at $1.5 million.
County’s Role in the Project
The county will oversee and manage the road reconstruction project, including contractor selection, construction oversight and financial management. The county’s contributions include:
- Funding: A $2.5 million allocation to the project.
- Maintenance: Long-term maintenance responsibilities for the road after reconstruction is complete.
- Contractor Oversight: Managing bids, supervising contractors and ensuring compliance with approved designs.
The road reconstruction supports the Cowboy Solar I project, the first phase of the broader Cowboy Solar initiative…