Verizon plans new Mitchell tower

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Verizon Wireless is seeking approval to construct a new 159-foot cellular phone tower in Mitchell.

Verizon spokesperson Karen Smith said the proposed tower would provide additional coverage and network capacity for Verizon users in the area and add coverage to a nearby section of Interstate 90.

The cellular company’s application for a conditional use permit for construction of the tower at the proposed site, located at 1525 W. Havens Ave., was approved by the Mitchell City Council on March 5.

A notice published in The Daily Republic’s classifieds March 13 gave the public 30 days to submit any comments on the proposed tower.

Smith said depending on the location, Verizon may begin construction plans years in advance.

“We monitor our networks closely so we know of any need for improvements,” she said.

Verizon has no timeline for the construction of its new cell site in Mitchell as of yet, Smith said. Verizon does not disclose the cost of new cell towers.

According to Smith, the company invested $40 million in South Dakota in 2011 and has invested $296 million since 2000.

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