Morrisville Wireless Telecommunication Facilities Master Plan - 2013

Community Issues This section lists specific issues generated during the Public Participation Process. 1. Height: A determining factor in the location and design of a telecommunication facility is the facility height and height of the ancillary antennas. From a service standpoint, ancillary antenna height is important since signal transmission between facilities relies on line of sight. Buildings and trees can block or weaken that signal transmission; therefore, companies often seek approval for facilities that allow antenna heights to be above any obstructions. From a community appearance standpoint, height is important because it can affect facility visibility. 2. Number of Facilities: Based on an analysis and assuming the use of current technology, the consultants anticipate the need for thirty‐six (36) antenna locations to cover those areas with less desirable coverage (see Appendix B ). With data demand expected to continue increasing dramatically, the wireless industry may want to see the number of facilities increase further to better serve specific areas. To keep up with demand, technological advances may create opportunities for companies to provide facilities in less conspicuous ways. 3. Visibility & Aesthetics: Many people find the typical non‐concealed telecommunication facility to be unattractive. Based on responses received from the May 2012 CPS, 84% of respondents agree that the appearance of cell towers is important ; however, 60% of respondents agreed that a cell tower visibl from their neighborhood was okay if they had good service . To accommodate these additional telecommunication facilities, 82% of respondents supported the use of more/taller towers in non‐residential areas in order to have fewer/shorter towers elsewhere . Short‐term, this method may reduce the total number of facilities by increasing the allowable number of antenna collocations on a single facility. Additionally, placing many antennas on a single taller telecommunication facility may reduce the overall quantity; however, many antennas may also create undesirable visual impacts and draw more attention than many shorter facilities. Taller facilities may not be a long‐ term solution, however, because future demand from consumers may prescribe telecommunication facility locations closer to the user, leading to more facilities within neighborhoods. 4. Noise: Some telecommunication facility compound areas include generators to provide power or backup power in the event of a power outage. On occasion, this type of equipment may generate substantial noise and shall comply with the Town Noise Ordinance. 5. Falling Hazards: Tall telecommunication facilities with antennas mounted high on the facility may be subject to wind, ice or other natural occurrences, which could lead to structural failure or potential breaks. Ordinances typically address hazards such as these through setback requirements based on the facility height, requiring the use of breakpoint technology in facility design (design that causes the tower to break at a predetermined point to minimize its impact when under stress), and through a structural analysis.

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