Equipment at Stevens Avenue Node Would Improve Cellular Signal Within Small Distance
By: Joseph L. Kuchie
SOUTH AMBOY – A Verizon representative presented a plan to install a small cellular ‘node’ near Stevens Avenue during last week’s South Amboy business meeting.
The node is a two-and-a-half foot antenna with a small radio box that would be installed on a pre-existing utility pole near the Cardinal McCarrick High School building. It works in conjunction with Verizon’s wireless network to cover a small dead spot found in the area.
According to the representative, the box will provide more reliable service and better upload and download speeds for wireless networks within an 1800 feet radius of the pole. Verizon installs these boxes where it is deemed necessary but it is not meant to provide significant coverage to a large area.
These boxes have been proposed to several municipalities in New Jersey and, per the representative, Verizon has received roughly 180 approvals to install. Verizon is only requesting to install one node in the city of South Amboy for now and would have to come back to the city council for additional requests.
City Attorney John Lanza said he would look into the paperwork and get back to the council before a decision can be made.
After a mandatory vote on a bond ordinance and two closed sessions, the business meeting was cut short due to a lack of quorum. Councilman Brian McLaughlin was not in attendance, Councilman Tom Reilly had to leave city hall early to make a presentation at a Friends of South Amboy event, and Councilwoman Christine Noble had to leave early for a family emergency.
The council will hold their next monthly city council meeting on June 21st at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall.