Cell Tower Moves Ahead

By Avice Meehan

Construction of an access road and site work for a 186-foot cell tower located on Estey Road is well underway. The state Siting Council approved a development and management plan in April, but significant work did not occur until after Sept. 30 because of restrictions intended to protect several species of bats. The cell tower, being developed by an entity known as Tarpon Towers III, LLC, will serve Verizon Wireless. Other cell providers are also expected to lease lower levels on the cell tower.

As of late October, erosion barriers were in place and much of the 940-foot-long driveway had been cleared of trees—at least 86, according to plans submitted to the state. Excavation had also started for the concrete piers and foundation that will support the tower. Eventually, the lattice tower itself will be inside a 73-foot square compound and surrounded by an eight-foot chain link fence. The proposed cell tower generated opposition from home owners on Estey Road—the easement for the access road or drive, immediately abuts an adjacent property—but is awaited with eagerness by those in the area who contend with poor to no cell service. Construction is expected to last eight to 10 weeks, according to conditions set by the Siting Council.