Washington DC National Capital Planning Commission Briefing on 5G Small Cell Infrastructure

Commission Meeting: July 12, 2018

PRESENTER Michael Bello

“Cellular providers have begun deploying small-cell infrastructure, a new lower-powered antenna technology, to reduce data traffic load on roof mounted equipment and larger cell towers. This new technology requires significant infrastructure that will affect the aesthetics and potential function of public spaces.”

July 12, 2018 at 1 pm.

Powerpoint

https://www.ncpc.gov/docs/actions/2018July/7994_Small_Cell_Infrastructure_Briefing_Information_Sheet_Jul2018.pdf

Meeting Agenda

https://www.ncpc.gov/review/agenda/

District of Columbia PROJECT Small Cell Infrastructure Briefing

7994_Small_Cell_Infrastructure_Briefing_Information_Sheet_Jul2018

“The purpose of this informational presentation is to brief the Commission on a new cellular technology that will soon be deployed in the District of Columbia. The briefing will overview the need for this technology and its application, and how local and federal agencies are addressing the impacts on the District’s public space.

Kathryn Roos, P3 Manager with the District Department of Transportation (DDOT) will join NCPC staff, whom will be present to answer questions. With a growing demand for wireless technology across the US, cellular companies are working to relieve the congestion on existing networks. Cellular providers have begun deploying small-cell infrastructure, a new lower-powered antenna technology, to reduce data traffic load on roof mounted equipment and larger cell towers. This new technology requires significant infrastructure that will affect the aesthetics and potential function of public spaces.

There are multiple applications for this infrastructure, such as attaching to existing streetlights or utility poles, integrating the equipment into some types of street furniture, or employing standalone pole installations. Cities across the nation are beginning to address the issue of balancing the need to accommodate the increase cellular demand with their community’s public space character and function. DDOT has entered into a master license agreement with several cellular companies that are planning to deploy this small cell infrastructure throughout the District. Therefore, the design and placement of this infrastructure is critically important. Local and federal agencies are currently working on guidelines that will minimize the impacts small cell infrastructure will have on the Capital City. As the lead agency and liaison with the cellular providers, DDOT is working with the District of Columbia Office of Planning, the State Historic Preservation Office, the Commission of Fine Arts, and NCPC. ATTACHED: Small Cell Infrastructure Illustrations and Photos