Standard&Poor's Ratings Services assigned its 'AA' long-term rating to Colorado Springs, Colo.'s utility system subordinate-lien improvement revenue bonds series 2005 A, B, and C. At the same time, Standard&Poor's also assigned its 'A-1+' short-term rating to the series 2005A bonds, based on a standby bond purchase agreement (SBPA) provided by State Street Bank and Trust Co. ('AA/A-1+'). In addition, Standard&Poor's affirmed its 'AA' unenhanced long-term rating on all other senior- and subordinate-lien debt of the utility system. The 'AA' long-term rating reflects the city's: Strong financial management, resulting in total coverage of about 1.8x-2.0x on a historical and projected basis; Competitive rates in each of its four utility systems, although planned capital improvements will
