Environment DEC
From the May 2007 issue
State Reaches Agreement with Wireless Provider on Northway Cellphone Coverage
An agreement has been reached with Verizon Wireless and the five major environmental groups dedicated to protection of the Adirondack Park on a "Statement of Principles" to help guide future development of cellular phone service along the Northway (I-87) corridor. The lack of cellular coverage on the Northway corridor has been a subject of great concern for public safety reasons. Nearly 47 miles of this heavily traveled interstate--the main thoroughfare between New York State and Montreal-currently offers no cell phone service. Recent tragic accidents have highlighted the need to address this important public safety matter.
In an emergency, a cellphone can be a lifesaver, especially in remote areas
The solution offered by Verizon Wireless is privately financed and located primarily on private land. The company has committed to erect as few towers as necessary to secure full Northway coverage and to build a system that is compliant with the laws, policies and regulations that govern towers in the Adirondacks. Verizon has indicated that it will not construct towers within the forest preserve. Adirondack organizations will facilitate the timely review, approval and deployment of "wireless communication systems" that are in accord with stated principles.
