SHARE

Proposed Cell Tower Sparks Concern Among Bedford Residents

Opponents of a proposed Verizon cell tower in the heart of Bedford Village are encouraging residents to attend a public meeting on Monday, June 18.

The box marks the approximate location of a proposed Verizon cell tower on Hickory Lane in Bedford Village.

The box marks the approximate location of a proposed Verizon cell tower on Hickory Lane in Bedford Village.

Photo Credit: Provided
Another angle: The box marks the approximate location of a proposed Verizon cell tower on Hickory Lane in Bedford Village.

Another angle: The box marks the approximate location of a proposed Verizon cell tower on Hickory Lane in Bedford Village.

Photo Credit: Provided
Another view of Bedford Village, settled in 1680. Monday's hearing will address plans to build a Verizon cell tower along this horizon.

Another view of Bedford Village, settled in 1680. Monday's hearing will address plans to build a Verizon cell tower along this horizon.

Photo Credit: Provided
Another angle: The box marks the approximate location of a proposed Verizon cell tower on Hickory Lane in Bedford Village.

Another angle: The box marks the approximate location of a proposed Verizon cell tower on Hickory Lane in Bedford Village.

Photo Credit: Provided
If a cell tower is built near the woods, can you see it? That's what opponents of a proposed Verizon cell tower are asking.

If a cell tower is built near the woods, can you see it? That's what opponents of a proposed Verizon cell tower are asking.

Photo Credit: Provided

The meeting begins at 8 p.m. in the Court Room at 321 Bedford Road in Bedford Hills.

The Board of Directors of the Bedford Historical Society opposes it and is seeking other public input.

Verizon plans to erect a 150-foot cell tower on Hickory Lane that will be clearly visible in Bedford Village. 

In March 2017, Verizon conducted a visual impact assessment at the proposed tower location which involved raising a helium balloon to the height of the tower.  

The balloon was visible from various points around the Village Green and beyond. 

Unlike a balloon, this tower will be 12- to 15-feet in diameter and have a clear impact on the historic character of Bedford Village, opponents said in a news release: 

"Places like Bedford don't just happen. They are forged from the will of the people who call this place home. The original settlers laid out our Village that has remained mostly unchanged since 1680. And, for more than 100 years people like you have been part of the Historical Society because you believe that preservation should be part of progress."

Similar concerns were raised by Rye residents about mini-Verizon cell towers popping up in that historic city, as reported here by Daily Voice.

Bedford can have improved cell service without marring its historic character, opponents said. There are numerous alternatives, albeit more expensive, that would have minimal impact on the Village and surrounding area. 

A link to an online petition against the cell tower can be found by clicking here. 

 If you are unable to attend Monday's meeting but would like to voice your thoughts, send an email to: planning@bedfordny.gov 

to follow Daily Voice Somers and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE