New Canaan Requests Proposals To Solve Town's Wireless Shortfalls

NEW CANAAN, Conn. — In an effort to keep the look of cellphone towers aesthetically pleasing, the town of New Canaan recently released a Request for Proposal on March 21 for companies to compete to build and supply wireless services for the town.

New Canaan has released a Request for Proposal for companies to build and operate a new wireless system in the town, that also looks pleasing. Photo Credit: *AT&T/File*

K Reakes

03/23/2016 4:00 p.m.

New Canaan, which has many "holes" in its wireless service, is seeking creative solutions from companies to maximize capacity and increase wireless services in underserved areas, while at the same time keeping with the town’s height and aesthetic preferences for minimal visual impact, the RFP said.

The town is also updating its existing wireless ordinance to help develop the new wireless infrastructure with streamlined permitting requirements, as well as to help with regulations to expedite facility upgrades and modifications.

To further encourage companies to compete for the job, the town will allow the use of certain town properties, including right-of-ways parcels, and will help facilitate interactions with private landowners for needed land for the project, said the RFP.

The town, who said it is committed to the project, added that they recognize the concerns of the wireless industry and will work diligently to solve issues that may stand in the way of wireless development, in order to make sure that the delivery of necessary emergency services is available to all citizens, in all areas of the town.

Companies interested in applying, should do so no later than May 4, at 4 p.m. The town plans to make its choice of proposal by May 20.

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