Greenwich Needs Cell Tower, AT&T Says

GREENWICH, Conn. – A new cell tower is the only way to close cell reception gaps in North Mianus and the surrounding areas, service provider AT&T said in response to a meeting in which Greenwich residents spoke out against the idea.  

AT&T wants to build a 17½-foot concealed tower on top of a 40-foot Aquarion Water Co. water tower at 455 Valley Road. The company tries, when possible, not to build conventional cell towers and uses existing water towers, buildings and other structures to improve service, said Chuck Coursey, Connecticut spokesperson for AT&T.

“No other existing structures or locations could be identified to provide the coverage requirements needed for this area,” Coursey said. “The location and minimum height selected were chosen to achieve optimal balance between meeting coverage objectives and minimizing any aesthetic impact to the community.”

Residents argued the use of the water tank for anything other than water violates Aquarion’s deed for the land. Coursey disagreed, saying wireless facilities are installed on over 80 water tanks across Connecticut.

“Without this site in this area, at the height requested, there will continue to exist a significant gap in service in North Mianus and the need for reliable wireless service in this area will continue to go unmet,” said Coursey.

The Connecticut Siting Council went on a tour and conducted a hearing with AT&T earlier Thursday. The council has the final say over where a cell tower, if any, would be placed. The Connecticut Siting Council has to wait at least 30 days after Thursday’s hearing to make a decision on whether to approve the Valley Road tower. 

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