Existing 5G Coverage
The FCC National Broadband Map shows that the proposed cell tower location at 3549 Conrad Avenue already has ample AT&T coverage, as well as full fixed broadband availability in the surrounding area. AT&T representatives have been walking door-to-door in the neighborhood touting the extensive coverage in the area, stating that AT&T’s impressive coverage is a great reason to switch over from other carriers. There is no need for this cell tower in Gershwin Park or the surrounding areas.
FirstNet 5G Coverage
Why would AT&T want to built a cell tower in Gershwin Park if there’s already comprehensive coverage in the area? AT&T signed a 25-year contract to act as the exclusive carrier for FirstNet to build and operate a nationwide mobile communications network that gives first responders priority access. In exchange, AT&T receives billions from the federal government and exclusive access to valuable telecommunications spectrum.
It is unlikely that any potential emergency demands of the neighborhood would exceed AT&T’s existing coverage capabilities. Even if such a situation were to arise — which might require first responders’ reliance on FirstNet coverage — FirstNet already has extensive 5G coverage at Gershwin Park and the surrounding areas.
AT&T is promoting this tower as a safety enhancement, but given the existing far-reaching 5G coverage, the tower presents more harm than good. Adding industrial electrical equipment and 50 gallons of fuel to the edge of a canyon and among tree canopies greatly increases fire hazard. The proposed AT&T cell tower creates unnecessary risk.