Last month, the Village Board proposed installing a Verizon small cell in a cupola built atop a concession stand at Coopers Beach, NY. The Southampton Press reported improving coverage at the beach is a safety issue, especially in the summer when the “population surges and service dips.” Verizon will build and install the tower at no cost to the village.
According to Village Board member Andrew Pilaro, “coverage in the village has been good during the winter, fall, and spring,” but diminishes in summer. Board member Kimberly Allan added of Cooper Beach, “Police go down there with two phones, one from AT&T and one from Verizon, but they still have no way to communicate with ocean rescue or people on the beach.”
Village Police Chief Robert Cummings said a new cell tower on the beach would “definitely” help, “especially during the summer when there’s a lot of density. You’re lucky to get a call out or any information in … if someone dials 911, they can’t always get through.”
Pilaro and Allen put forth the resolution to sign the contract with Verizon, reported the Press. Allen said they want the improved service “up and running by the first week in July.”
Verizon engineers have conducted a preliminary site visit and crafted preliminary drawings. A second site visit is required but has been delayed by COVID-19 travel restrictions. Pilaro remarked on the positive experience with Verizon, saying the process has “been seamless and great.” He also commented on the camouflaged small cell saying, “You’re not going to be able to see it. It is not going to be an eyesore.”
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