Doney Park approves conditional use permit for 150 foot wireless tower on Loop Road

On May 28, 2025, Coconino County officials convened for a Planning and Zoning Staff and Commission Study Session and Public Hearing, where they discussed a significant proposal for a new wireless telecommunications facility. The meeting focused on a conditional use permit (CUP 25018) for a 150-foot cell tower to be constructed in the heavy industrial zone along Loop Road in the Doney Park area.

Zach Schwartz, a member of the planning staff, presented the details of the proposal, which is being put forth by Blackheart Logistics, a towing company based in Flagstaff. The applicant, Tom Johnson from California, aims to address the existing gaps in wireless coverage in the region. The proposed site, located at 7270 Loop Road, spans 3.2 acres and is surrounded by various industrial operations, including an auto salvage yard and a propane sales facility.

The tower will be designed as a monopole structure, featuring ground equipment within a fenced 60 by 60 lease area. This area will include a backup generator and equipment cabinets, ensuring that the facility operates efficiently. Notably, the design of the tower includes safety measures to ensure that it would collapse within its footprint in the event of a failure.

During the presentation, Schwartz shared visual simulations of the tower from various vantage points, illustrating its potential impact on the surrounding landscape. The simulations indicated that the tower would be minimally visible from nearby residential areas, which is a critical consideration for community acceptance.

The proposal aligns with the county's comprehensive plan, which supports the expansion of wireless service coverage. This is particularly relevant as the area has been identified as having poor wireless connectivity, with the new tower expected to enhance service for residents and businesses alike.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of community engagement, as officials acknowledged the need to address any concerns from local residents regarding the tower's construction and its implications for the neighborhood.

As the commission deliberates on this proposal, the outcome could significantly influence both the technological landscape and the quality of life for residents in the Doney Park area. The next steps will involve further analysis of the proposal and consideration of public feedback before a final decision is made.