Verizon is seeking approval to build a 50-foot cell tower near the Big Indian-Oliverea Fire Department, saying the pole would improve service for firefighters and strengthen wireless coverage on Fire House Road, in Big Indian Park and along Route 28.
The proposal was presented Wednesday to the Shandaken Planning Board by Scott Olson, a representative for Verizon. It will next go before the Shandaken Zoning Board of Appeals on May 20, when the company is expected to seek four variances, according to Olivia Amantia, secretary for the Planning Board, Zoning Board of Appeals and Building Department.
The Planning Board could set a public hearing for July 8.
In paperwork filed with the town last month, Verizon said the tower is needed because its existing antennas in Margaretville and Shandaken are too far from the Big Indian-Oliverea Hose Company to provide reliable service. The company also cited terrain and foliage as obstacles to coverage.
Two of the variances involve setback requirements. A third would allow Verizon to be the pole’s only carrier, even though towers are generally required to accommodate two wireless companies. A fourth would allow the company to install a cellular facility in a highway-business zoning district.
The proposed Big Indian pole would be considerably smaller than other recent cell tower proposals in Shandaken, including a 160-foot tower at 1466 Wittenberg Road in Mount Tremper that town officials approved last year.
Verizon had also sought approval for another Shandaken cell tower, but withdrew that application amid pushback from residents concerned about aesthetics and possible health risks, Supervisor Babs Mansfield said. Mansfield said Verizon is now working with Ulster County on emergency cell service in Phoenicia.
In a statement, Verizon said it’s committed to improving its network and providing dependable service to customers. The Big Indian tower is part of that effort, the company said.
John W. Barry is a reporter for The Overlook. Reach him at john@theoverlooknews.com.
