Colorado voters nixed Aspen's long-delayed 1.05-MW Castle Creek hydropower project, with those opposing the plan holding about a 51.4% advantage over those in favor.

The Castle Creek hydroelectric plant was originally passed by Aspen voters in 2007, who then approved a US$5.5 million bond for its construction.

HydroWorld.com even reported in March 2008 that a $1.3 million contract had been awarded to Canyon Industries Inc. to supply a turbine and generator for the project, although work on the project never began.

Project revisions and inflation eventually raised Castle Creek's price tag to $10.5 million, increasing opposition along the way.

The city is not legally required to heed Aspen's most recent vote, although sources say it would be a political misstep to ignore the majority.

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