Edgartown sent out a survey this week to Chappaquiddick property owners to gauge their opinions about the best way to improve cellular reception on the island. The survey comes after months of research conducted by the Chappaquiddick cellular committee, which explored the viability of either a cellular tower or a distributed antenna system (DAS).
Fierce opposition to an over-height tower and debate about whether it would be appropriate on Chappy have delayed decision making. DAS, though more expensive, relies on a series of small antennas often erected on utility poles. Many residents think that a tower would interfere with the island’s natural aesthetic.
At a meeting of Edgartown selectmen on August 17, committee members, town officials, and residents agreed that a survey was needed. Chappy residents were clearly divided about which option would better and most adequately suit the island’s needs, as were committee members.
“At this time, it is important to be able to narrow the focus based upon feedback received from this survey,” the selectmen said in a press release. “If you are a property owner on Chappaquiddick, the town wants to hear your voice and your responses to the survey questions.”
The survey was sent out to properties listed on the town assessor’s records for mail, wireless committee chairman Woody Filley said. Residents are asked to return the survey to the town by Sept. 21. The committee will present the survey’s findings at a selectmen’s meeting in October.
In order to maintain the utmost objectivity, Mr. Filley said, town information technology manager Adam Darack issued the survey, and will likely be the first to organize its results. He is also the point of contact for any questions about it, or Chappy cell coverage options.
Presently, there are no proposals before the town to build any type of structure that would provide or improve cell reception.
A request for proposals (RFP) that brought a response from Grain Communications Inc. to build a tower has lapsed. Solutions to the lack of cell reception on Chappy would require the issuance of a new RFP.
Currently, Verizon is designing a DAS system. Antenna counts and pole locations will be determined in their final plans.
The survey further seeks to identify priority coverage areas on Chappy, so that a solution may be as best fitted for residents as possible.
Chappy property owners who have questions or who did not receive a survey should email Mr. Darack at survey@edgartown-ma.us.
