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The town of Westport said it has been informed that Verizon Wireless and its affiliates are proposing to co-locate a micro antenna onto the side of an existing 35-foot utility pole located on Compo Beach Road.
The mounting arm, antenna and related equipment will be 24 feet off the ground and attached to the side of the utility pole. It will not be attached to the top of the 35-foot utility pole.
Because the utility pole is located within the boundaries of the Compo/Owenoke Park National Register District, Verizon must first seek public input for any adverse impact the proposed facility may have on the district.
Residents will the chance to speak on the issue at 7 p.m. Oct.13, during the Historic District Commission meeting at Town Hall.
“I want the public, and in particular the Owenoke/Compo area residents, to be informed about this proposal as early as possible. Also, it is important that the public know the manner in which any concerns or questions relative to the project will be addressed.” First Selectman Jim Marpe said. “As many are aware, and of particular concern for those who live there, cell phone coverage in the Compo Beach area has always been very weak."
Marpe added that rather than installing 150-foot towers that have a long range, but are visually disruptive to neighborhoods, installing this type of low-rise, small-scale, local antennae is the solution encouraged for wireless service providers to seek.
"It is likely that we will see more of these “micro antennas” installed in other areas in town that currently experience weak wireless signal coverage," he said.
Residents can submit written comments regarding the proposed antenna on the historic district to: Vanasse, Hangen, Brustlin, Inc. ATTN: Coreen Kelsey, 100 Great Meadow Road, Suite 200, Wethersfield, CT 06109.
Questions or requests for additional information about this proposed project may be submitted via email to ckelsey@vhb.com or by calling 860-807-4306.
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