The City Council of Lincoln has taken a significant step towards enhancing mobile connectivity in the community by approving a lease agreement for a new cell tower site at 12 Bridges Park. During the regular council meeting on May 14, 2025, council members discussed the details of the proposal, which aims to address the growing demand for reliable cell service in the area.

The proposed site, located behind the Rib Cook-Off area, was identified as having the highest elevation in the vicinity, making it an ideal location for the tower. The lease agreement will cover 3,600 square feet and includes necessary easements for utilities and landscaping. The council emphasized that this project does not require the removal of existing infrastructure, distinguishing it from previous cell tower approvals.

The lease is structured as a 40-year agreement with an initial monthly rent of $2,000, which will increase by 2.5% annually. Additionally, the city will benefit from a revenue-sharing provision, allowing for $200 per month for each additional broadband carrier that may join the tower in the future. This could potentially increase total revenue to as much as $2.5 million over the lease term, depending on the number of carriers.

Council members acknowledged the importance of this project for the community, noting that many residents rely heavily on their cell phones for communication and access to services. While the council approved the lease, they clarified that the project must still undergo a planning process that includes community feedback before it can be fully realized.

In conclusion, the approval of the cell tower lease marks a proactive move by the City Council to improve telecommunications infrastructure, addressing a critical need for residents while also generating potential revenue for the city’s general fund. The council looks forward to the next steps in the planning process, ensuring that community input will play a vital role in the project's development.