Xcels High Bridge plant to be demolished, land to be reused
The 85-year-old Xcel High Bridge Plant in Saint Paul will soon be torn down. For decades, the coal-fired power plant provided electricity to metro area homes.
But this year, in an effort to reduce the substantial pollution from burning coal, the plant is being put out of service in exchange for a new, cleaner natural gas powered plant on the same site.
While the emissions from the plant were not pretty, the building itself (beneath some assorted mechanical clutter and various additions) is a handsome turn-of-the-century brick structure. Where the coal pile that once fed the plant lies, the new natural gas plant has been constructed, leaving the former plant empty.
After investigation, Xcel has decided to tear down the old plant including the 570 foot chimney that was erected in 1972.
In its new state, much of the site remains unused, and Xcel is now considering how to proceed with planning for potential new uses. A preliminary design workshop organized by the Saint Paul Riverfront Corporation last year explored a range of options including passive riverfront park, a dog park, a soccer complex and housing. Stay tuned for the latest developments.