Verizon to build Sandpoint cell tower

SANDPOINT — Can you hear me now?

Verizon Wireless officials are hoping that question is asked with less frequency once the company builds a monopole communication tower in Sandpoint.

The city’s Planning Commission unanimously approved a variance permit last month that would enable Verizon to build an 80-foot-tall cell tower at 101 South Boyer Ave. Currently zoned Commercial D, the site allows structures up to 45 feet tall, but Verizon officials requested and were granted a variance for the 80-foot tower.

Derek Budig of Verizon told commissioners last month that anything shorter than 80 feet would not produce adequate coverage. According to Budig, the new tower would enable Verizon to serve more Sandpoint customers by increasing available bandwidth and improving cell phone coverage.

Verizon currently has a tower located at Gold Hill, but Budig said the tower has reached its capacity and, once the new tower is built, the Gold Hill tower would be used to service Ponderay customers.

The commission approved the application, but included a number of conditions, including requiring the tower to be a neutral color and allowing the city to have full access to the site for voice and data communications, among others.

Verizon needs to apply for a building permit before it can build the tower.