‘Micro site’ antennas proposed to close cellphone coverage gaps in Ridgewood
AUGUST 28, 2014 LAST UPDATED: THURSDAY, AUGUST 28, 2014, 1:57 PM
BY JODI WEINBERGER
A radio frequency engineer for Verizon Wireless said a gap in data coverage affects more than 4,000 people in the village.
The telecommunications company is asking for a use and height variance from the Zoning Board of Adjustment to build a “micro site” antenna on the top of the steeple at the West Side Presbyterian Church, 6 S. Monroe St., said engineer Glenn Pierson.
The antenna, which is not permitted in a residential zone, would bring the total height of the building to 83 feet where 30 feet is permitted by law. The building is at an existing height of 81 feet.
Pierson said the antenna would provide relief for about 700 people, but if the village approves the plan, Verizon would propose other micro sites to “start chipping away at the coverage gap.”
The 2-foot antenna is being proposed in response to negative reaction from the big “macro site” cell towers seen around the state, Pierson said.
“It’s a start, a first step,” Pierson said. “We want to see how Ridgewood reacts to this type of design versus a 100-foot tower.”
He said the topography of Ridgewood creates a “significant gap” in coverage in the area north of West Ridgewood Avenue on North Monroe Street, Beachwood Road, Monte Vista Avenue, Sheridan Terrace and other roadways. The coverage, however, would not reach West Glen Avenue.
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