Should new rooftop telecommunication equipment be screened or concealed even if the law does not require it?
That question — particularly as it pertains to proposed new dishes and antennae atop historic Erector Square — was debated at last week’s City Plan Commission meeting.
At issue was a proposal by Clear Wireless LLC to install three antennas, two dishes, and one GPS antenna on an existing rooftop lattice structure to the rear of the fabled 1902 complex that once produced Erector Square’s eponymous toys.
The proposal engendered extended discussion — and a delay in decision-making.
The new facilities would be attached to the existing lattice work and equipment owned by Sprint, which rises to 72 feet above ground.
The lawyer representing Clear Wireless Jennifer Herz of Hartford-based Brown and Rudnick said there would in effect be no impact at all visually or environmentally, and no FCC or other approvals were required.
Similarly, in their report City Plan staffers advised the commissioners that “While the proposal does not improve upon the visual impact of the building, it does not degrade visual impacts either.”
That did not mollify several of the commissioners, concerned not only with this and a similar addition proposed for the rooftop of 744 – 750 Congress Ave., but with the proliferation of such equipment citywide.
The proposed facility is not for telephones but for Internet browsing and wireless communications coverage in an area about a mile and half along I‑91 and one mile along State Street.
Commission Chairman Ed Mattison said he was “worried they’ll [such equipment] overwhelm the streetscape.”
East Rock Alderman (and aldermanic rep to the commission) Justin Elicker wanted to know why, given the historic character of the building, there wasn’t an obligation to screen the existing lattice as well as what was proposed.
Karyn Gilvarg pointed out that the historic character of Erector Square is “industrial historic.”
Allan Appel Photo
Elicker persisted and was supported by City Engineer Dick Miller (left in photo with newest commissioner Kevin Diadamo).
“It has a tower-like feel. Can you ameliorate? As you start to add more, do you have some accommodation to screen?” he put the question to attorney Herz.
“We’re willing to look into it,” she replied.
City Plan staff zoning expert Tom Talbot advised that “It’s a legal structure. If you’re looking for screening,” He suggested the result might be more deleterious visual impact than already exists.
“I’m looking for the applicant to find a solution,” Elicker said.
Mattison said that he understood that there is a push from the federal level as a matter of policy to promote these structures. “The fact that it already exists should not be a detriment. They should have to re-think it.”
The City Plan staff report recommended approval as long as the dishes and antennae were painted a neutral color and that no advertising was allowed.”
Elicker, however, moved that the item be tabled allowing Herz to come back next month with possible screening suggestions and more detail. The motion passed unanimously.