BELLA VISTA -- Planners on Monday approved development plans for a new wireless cell tower on Glasgow Road. The project now moves forward to the construction phase.
Northwest Wireless Facilities of Springdale wants to build a 195-foot tower in front of the water tower adjacent to Fire Station No. 3 at 201 Glasgow Road. The Planning Commission approved a permit for the project in January, which hinged on several provisions regarding the project's landscaping plan.
Northwest Wireless is required to preserve trees outside the tower's lease area, and install a row of trees and shrubs to front both Glasgow Road and Alloway Lane. A six-foot tall, chain-link fence also will be installed around the tower for security purposes, according to a staff report.
"We would prefer existing vegetation is preserved because it has more value," said Chris Suneson, planning and building director.
Because those requirements were met along with other alterations to the landscape plan, staff recommend approval of the project's plans, said Jennifer Bonner, Bella Vista planner.
Craig Hull, a representative with the company, thanked planners for their cooperation.
"We're working with the city and (Property Owners Association) to get something for you to review and approve," Hull said, adding that Northwest Wireless plans to build in the fourth quarter.
Hull said the tower would improve coverage for Verizon customers. Meanwhile, Fire Chief Steve Sims believes the tower also could store communication equipment for the station.
Planners granted an extension to a similar project seeking to build a cell tower near the city's fourth fire station, which is in the construction phase.
Smith Communications asked the commission for a time extension request because the project start date has been delayed by Verizon, according to project manager Dave Reynolds. The commission originally granted the permit for the project last July.
The new Highlands Gate Station will be on a 4.31-acre parcel just south of the intersection of Forest Hills Boulevard and Buckstone Drive. The city purchased the land last spring from Village Bible Free Evangelical Church for about $172,000.
Planners approved development plans for the new station in March. The project is in the construction phase and engineers can submit plans for building review, Bonner said. Plans call for a 9,300-square-foot facility with space for six bedrooms and three bathrooms.
Between nine and 12 firefighters will work at the station, covering the west-central portion of the city. Construction should begin this summer with a tentative opening date set for June 2016.
NW News on 04/15/2015