FIRESTONE - Weld County's first compressed national-gas fueling station will open Friday in Firestone, and a second station will open in Greeley in July.

The SkyBlu station, operated by Mansfield Energy Corp., is located at the Shell Station, 11099 E. Interstate 25 Frontage Road in Firestone. It's owned by Firestone Convenience LLC.

The station will be open 24 hours a day and offer dual-hose fast-fill dispensers for light-, medium- and heavy-duty compressed natural-gas vehicles.

"We encourage area residents and businesses to take advantage of this cheaper, cleaner energy source in their own backyard," Firestone Town Manager Wesley LaVanchy said.

On Friday, a compressed natural-gas fueling and vehicle showcase demonstration will be given following speeches by Firestone, county and state officials as well as Mansfield Energy President J. Alexander. Firestone Mayor Chad Auer will lead the ribbon-cutting grand opening at 12:30 p.m.

The project is partially funded by Congestion, Mitigation, and Air Quality grant monies through the Denver Regional Council of Governments along with matching funds from Mansfield, Anadarko, Noble Energy and Encana.