Lavallette has received an application from Verizon Wireless to install seven new 5G “small cell” wireless nodes in town. The arrays will be the subject of a hearing at an upcoming meeting of the borough’s planning board.
The installation of 5G networking equipment has generated some controversy among a group of residents who believe the nodes are a detriment to both the aesthetics of the community and also pose a safety risk. The Federal Communications Commission, however, has not confirmed evidence of health risks and has developed 5G infrastructure rules that prevent municipal governments from banning the devices. The federal policy does allow municipalities to adopt regulations for 5G nodes, which have been codified by ordinance in Lavallette.
The proposed nodes would be located at:
- 598 Oceanfront
- 1103 Oceanfront
- 1406 Oceanfront
- 110 White Avenue
- 1608 Bay Boulevard
- 76 Grand Central Avenue
- 110 Pennsylvania Avenue
The plans are currently under review by the borough engineer and attorney, according to Borough Administrator Robert Brice. The applications will be reviewed at the Aug. 25, 2021 Planning Board Meeting, which will be held at 7 p.m.
The board will then make recommendations to the Borough Council, which will vote on the proposed sites at the Sept. 7, 2021 borough council meeting, scheduled for 7 p.m.
Both meetings are open to the public and will be held at Lavallette Borough Hall.