An unincorporated part of Toms River, NJ, Ortley Beach is one of many shore towns that sees an influx of summer visitors. Residents and visitors alike are welcome to use the town’s pickleball courts, but many have said they do not like the temporary cell tower looming over them. Jersey Shore Online reports that people have complained about the appearance and noise coming from the cell tower, while acknowledging the need for better digital reception in a historically weak reception area.
A license agreement between Ortley Beach and Cellco Partnership, doing business as Verizon Wireless, allows for the temporary use of the property, located at 1931 Railway Avenue. Town officials have stressed that the structure is temporary and is only slated to be in place during the busy summer months.
When asked why that particular location was chosen, Township Business Administrator, Louis Amoruso, stated that “We didn’t get to choose. We were approached by Verizon.”
President of the Ortley Beach Voters and Taxpayers Association, Anthony Colucci, pointed out that the site near the pickleball courts was selected after Verizon was unable to come to terms with either a local homeowners association, or a nearby water tower. He added that he would have preferred to see the temporary tower placed on Ocean County Utilities property, according to Jersey Shore Online.
Council members voted to accept Verizon’s choice of the Railway Avenue site, though the approval was not unanimous. Council President Matthew Lotano noted that Jersey Central Power and Light is working on a permanent connectivity solution.
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