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Report focuses on the equipment, regulations, and benefits of 5G coverage, along with the role of local governments to site and permit next-gen wireless in their communities

 NEWBURGH – Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress today released a new research brief that outlines the equipment, regulations, and benefits of next-generation wireless connectivity in the Hudson Valley, with a special focus on the role of local governments to permit the new infrastructure.

The report – Making it Mesh: How the Hudson Valley Can Prepare for Next-Gen Wireless –will educate the Hudson Valley about the complex infrastructure that must be deployed for our region to have fifth-generation (5G) wireless broadband connectivity. The demand on our existing wireless network is growing as more people and businesses utilize “smart” devices that require additional bandwidth to relay larger quantities of data. Although 5G has not arrived in much of the Hudson Valley, telecom companies are steadily looking to expand their infrastructure into our communities. Making it Mesh underscores that local policies, outdated zoning, and cumbersome permitting processes could hamper the deployment of 5G infrastructure unless communities prepare now.

“The deployment of 5G infrastructure throughout the Hudson Valley requires our civic leaders to strike a balance between improving connectivity and protecting the visual aesthetics of our communities,” Pattern CEO Adam Bosch. “The next generation of wireless broadband relies on a greater quantity of small relay points that will be installed in many places. It is important for our local government leaders to prepare now by establishing easy-to-understand permitting processes, thinking about preferred sites for 5G infrastructure, and establishing design criteria for special places such as historic districts.”

The role of local governments is especially important because 5G infrastructure is different and more ubiquitous than previous iterations of mobile connectivity. The new generation of wireless coverage relies on a greater quantity of small-cell nodes. These nodes are roughly the size of a backpack, and they are typically mounted on utility poles or buildings. Nodes are arranged as close as 500 feet apart, although the exact spacing varies based on local conditions and equipment specifications. This setup, known as a mesh network, allows the small-cell nodes to relay greater quantities of data much faster than traditional cell towers.

In Making it Mesh, Pattern outlines information about the new infrastructure, the latest federal regulations that set rules for local fees and review procedures, and strategies that our local governments should consider in the Hudson Valley. In particular, local governments should take the following steps to prepare for 5G infrastructure and applications:

  • Review and update local regulations to ensure they are ready to address 5G applications, especially in urban and suburban communities where small-cell nodes are most feasible.
  • Define small-cell 5G infrastructure in zoning regulations and administrative policies.
  • Consider whether it’s helpful to identify preferred sites for small-cell nodes, and establish an application process and fee structure.
  • Consider design standards that limit the visual impact of 5G nodes. Common approaches include hiding the equipment in flag poles or lamp posts, or decorative facades to disguise the equipment.
  • Educate local decision makers now. Given the technical nature of wireless infrastructure, municipalities often hire consultants to help guide decisions about its permitting, location, and design. While this might be helpful, it is still important for local decision makers to be informed so they are not at the whim of consultants.

Making it Mesh is an independent research brief that was compiled by research and planning experts at Pattern for Progress. Independent research has long been a hallmark of Pattern’s work in the Hudson Valley. Its independent research is funded by members who support the nonprofit through charitable donations each year.

Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress is a nonprofit organization that provides objective research, planning, and educational training throughout the region. Its work identifies civic challenges and promotes regional, equitable, and sustainable solutions to constantly improve the quality of life in Hudson Valley communities. Pattern develops its work upon a considerable foundation of facts and experience, without political aims or affiliations.

Pattern was founded in 1965 by the region’s academic, business, and nonprofit leaders. It serves a nine-county region that includes Columbia, Dutchess, Greene, Orange, Putnam, Rockland, Sullivan, Ulster and Westchester counties. Visit Pattern-For-Progress.org. Follow on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn @PatternForProgress, and on Twitter @HVPattern.