Verizon asks to substitute chain-link fence with privacy slats near Willow Ave property; environmental commission favors green or brown slats

Verizon Wireless asked the township for an amendment to a site-plan requirement so it may install a chain-link fence with privacy slats rather than the 10-foot composite fence originally required around a newly constructed cell tower that backs onto township-owned land near Willow Road.

A staff member briefed the Trails Advisory Committee that the tower sits on private property adjacent to the township's Willow Avenue parcel. Verizon proposed a standard chain-link perimeter with privacy slats woven into the mesh and offered to let the township choose the slat color; the company cited cost differences between composite fencing and a chain-link solution with slats.

Members noted the township property next to the tower is wooded with no public trails or regular public access. The environmental commission had reviewed the request and recommended the township accept the chain-link fence provided the privacy slats and color are green or brown to reduce visual impact. Commissioners observed that composite fencing could become discolored over time and that a green-coated chain-link with slats would be durable and less costly.

No formal vote by the Trails Advisory Committee was taken; the discussion was advisory and intended to gather committee input before the issue proceeds through the site-plan/variance process. Committee members suggested confirming whether the composite requirement was intended for aesthetics, security (climb resistance), or both, and whether any conditions (colors, slat type) should be included in an approval.

Ending: The committee accepted the briefing and offered informal support for the green or brown slat option as a cost-saving, lower-visibility alternative, while noting future site changes (such as a new trail) could alter the visual context of the fence.