UPDATE: Verizon has just announced plans to enhance cellphone service along Highway 101 near the Marin-Sonoma border, proposing to replace two existing cell towers with new, taller 21-foot structures. This urgent development is currently under review by Marin County planners, with potential approval expected by early March 2024.
The proposed site, situated on a 465-acre property owned by the Corda ranching family in unincorporated Novato, aims to improve connectivity for thousands of commuters. “The project is to improve service,” stated Kristin Drumm, a county planner overseeing the application. The existing towers, which have been in place since 1997, are visible from the highway and situated just south of the county line at San Antonio Creek.
Verizon contractor Chris Durand emphasized the importance of this upgrade. “We don’t call it a tower; we call it a popsicle stick or a mast,” he explained. The new structures will replace two steel towers in the same location, along with six antennas and concrete foundations. This infrastructure upgrade is crucial for enhancing signal coverage, which can extend between 2 to 5 miles depending on the terrain and signal frequency.
The project’s significance extends beyond mere connectivity. The upgraded towers aim to ensure that drivers and commuters along Highway 101 can maintain reliable cellphone service, reducing dropped calls and improving overall communication. “The purpose of the site is definitely to cover Highway 101,” Durand added.
Concerns regarding safety and exposure levels have been addressed in a report filed with the county. It states that while individuals standing within 76 feet of the antennas may face exposure to unsafe levels, anyone standing beyond that distance would be below the Federal Communications Commission’s maximum permissible exposure limits. The report further assures that the antennas are mounted on tall poles, minimizing public access.
As this project awaits final approval, Marin County must decide on the permit application within 150 days unless further information is required. Drumm noted that additional details have already been requested from Verizon, and no public hearing has yet been scheduled.
This upgrade is not just a technical enhancement; it represents a critical step toward better connectivity in an increasingly digital world. With the increasing reliance on mobile communication, particularly during commutes, the urgency for improved service is paramount.
Stay tuned for more updates as Marin County deliberates on this important proposal. The potential for enhanced service along Highway 101 could transform the commuting experience for many in the region. Share your thoughts on this development and stay informed on the latest updates!
