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Emma Fields operators must rebuild transformer enclosure; noise testing to be rescheduled
Summary
Pitkin County staff found noise-mitigation measures at the Emma Fields supportive-housing development in place but could not complete required chiller testing because the transformer screening wall does not meet Holy Cross Electric clearance standards; staff confirmed three affordable units are occupied under covenant.
Pitkin County staff told the Board of County Commissioners on March 25 that the Emma Fields supportive‑housing project has installed much of the required sound mitigation but that a transformer enclosure built at the site does not meet Holy Cross Electric’s clearance specifications and must be reconstructed before full sound testing can proceed.
Leslie Lamont, senior community planner in Community Development, said county and consultant inspections on Feb. 24 found the required mitigation elements installed but that staff could only test two exhaust fans because cold temperatures prevented the site chiller from operating. Lamont said site observers decided to return for more complete testing when the chiller could run and traffic noise would be lower, but Holy Cross later informed staff the transformer enclosure obstructed the access needed for emergency de‑energizing and must be moved.
Tom (Environmental Health) described initial measurements of the two fans: one fan’s reorientation reduced sound toward the property line; the other achieved only a modest (one‑to‑two‑decibel) difference. The consultant’s full measurement and report remain outstanding because the chiller could not be operated on the inspection date and because Holy Cross requires a 10‑foot minimum clearance in front of the transformer — the installed wall provides only about three to four feet in some places.
Chris (project representative) and county staff said the applicant intends to rebuild the enclosure to Holy Cross specifications and to schedule the chiller test as soon as reconstruction and weather permit. Lamont told the board that Andrew Miller, housing resiliency and sustainability staff, had reviewed occupancy documentation and confirmed the three EDU units are occupied consistent with the occupancy covenant.
Commissioners asked whether operations must stop pending reconstruction; staff said the facility may continue to operate while the enclosure is redesigned and rebuilt but that testing cannot proceed until Holy Cross signs off on the transformer access and the chiller can be operated for a full sound measurement.
