Newer ?monopine? is more realistic
This Idaho Tower Co. rendering shows how a proposed 90-foot artificial pine tower in the center of the ridge would be seen from a mile away at the Sunny Gulch Campground area, south of Stanley.
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Guest opinion by JENNIFER CAMPBELL
Jennifer Campbell is a co-owner of Idaho Tower Co., based in Ketchum.
Idaho Tower Company would like to thank the Idaho Mountain Express for its article regarding the proposal for two stealth communication sites for expansion of the cell phone service range in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area, one at Galena Summit and one on a Stanley hilltop. The article accurately relayed information regarding the proposal. There was also a guest opinion written by John Kelley, and a letter to the editor written by Jim Banholzer. ITC wishes to first clarify a couple a few items in Kelly?s letter.
Kelley submitted a picture of a ?typical stealth tower,? which is a ?monopine,? or an artificial pine tower used to disguise its role as a cell tower, at a Massachusetts Turnpike site. This is a much older monopine design and is neither attractive nor believable as a tree. The monopine is also in the midst of leafless deciduous trees, forcing the monopine to stand out in stark contrast. ITC will be using the latest design technology available. ITC?s monopine is significantly more realistic. ITC has conducted extensive research to identify the most appropriate monopine for the SNRA. ITC?s monopine is extremely durable and will handle extreme winds and weather. ITC?s monopine will also be installed within a cluster of evergreens at both proposed locations, which will further allow them to blend with their immediate surroundings. ITC has provided very accurate photo simulations of the proposed monopines at both locations. All of the pictures are from view sheds of concern, as cited by the SNRA. From most angles, the monopines blend so well, the visual impact is innocuous. There are only a couple of locations where the monopines are more clearly visible. ITC invites the public to come by its office and view the photo simulations of the proposed monopines to assess the potential visual impact. ITC?s office is located in Ketchum at 460 Sun Valley Road, Suite 201 (above F-Stop).
While ITC has not promised to provide E-911, Kelley brings to light the importance of this service. ITC is participating in the long-term goal for E-911 and our facilities are designed to accommodate E-911 equipment. In the meantime, cell phones themselves can still be highly effective safety tools.
Kelley expresses the anxiety that some people share regarding the introduction of wireless services in the Sawtooth National Recreation Area. ITC is very sensitive to this concern. ITC is comprised of local, Blaine County residents, all of whom live and love the active outdoor lifestyle offered in this community. Accordingly, ITC has submitted a proposal that is very sensitive to the visual impact. Kelley is also concerned about the negative impact of cell phones ringing, potentially impinging on the back country experience. This can be easily remedied with courtesy signs at trailheads, advising hikers to turn off their cell phone ringers and use their phones for emergency use only.
ITC appreciates Banholzer?s letter to the Editor: ?Yes to Cell phone service.? Banholzer is a full-time Ketchum resident and had a personal experience where a cell phone could have potentially saved lives. He also pointed out many other instances ranging from automobile accidents, boating accidents, to lost hikers, blocked roads and people falling ill and needing life-flight, all instances when cell phones can make a difference in saving a life.
In summary, Idaho Tower Company believes that providing better communication services for public safety, business and private use contributes positively to both Blaine and Custer Counties.
