The Lenox (MA) Zoning Board of Appeals has opened its review of a proposed 165-foot cell tower aimed at addressing the town’s significant wireless coverage gaps. At Wednesday’s public hearing, TowerCo, backed by Verizon Wireless (NYSE: VZ), presented its application for a special permit to build the tower on a remote maintenance section of Canyon Ranch’s property at 165 Kemble St. Canyon Ranch leaders were present in support, according to the Berkshire Eagle.
“This is a big project,” said attorney Elisabeth Goodman, representing TowerCo. “Your town doesn’t have service sufficient for safety, and that’s what this company is providing.”
Goodman emphasized that the tower would support up to four carriers and fill service voids in downtown Lenox, Route 7 and 20, and nearby residential areas. Coverage maps submitted with the application illustrate the improvements.
The Lenox Select Board has submitted a letter of support. Eight residents have also written in favor of the project, with three opposed. Because the tower would be built less than 300 feet from the nearest home, the application includes a variance request. Goodman said the proposed location offers the best balance of coverage and compliance with the town’s wireless bylaw.
ZBA member Kimberly Duval weighed in on broader concerns: “If you think there’s a place on Earth that can survive without cell service in the 21st century, go there.”
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