Patapsco Valley State Park’s steep, wooded terrain creates dangerous dead zones for cellphone and radio service, prompting Maryland officials to propose a 350-foot emergency communications tower near Catonsville. The tower would give rangers reliable coverage in a park that sees 2 million visitors a year, according to the Baltimore Banner.
But at a packed community meeting, residents blasted the plan as an eyesore that would spoil views, increase traffic, and lower property values. Some questioned why multiple shorter towers weren’t considered. State officials said that approach would cost more, require new access roads, and remove more trees.
The $3.5 million project, planned for a hilltop about 1,000 feet from homes, still needs state approval. Officials argue there are no viable alternate sites, citing years of dangerous communication gaps, including 851 emergency calls from the park last year.
Many residents said they recognize the need for better coverage but felt blindsided by limited outreach. Tensions flared throughout the meeting, with no compromise in sight.