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Ocean Shores board explores moving transmitter to IGA-area tower; coverage would shift but could improve local signal
Summary
Board members reported outreach to Vertical Bridge about leasing space on a self-supporting tower behind the IGA. The move could let KOSW raise effective radiated power or place antennas higher, improving reception in Ocean Shores but changing fringe coverage to other communities.
Board members told the meeting they have reinitiated talks with Vertical Bridge about leasing space on the red-and-white self-supporting tower behind the IGA, a site the board believes could improve KOSW’s Ocean Shores coverage if lease terms and technical limits permit.
Marty, who led the discussion, said he had reached out to Vertical Bridge and expected a midweek reply about a ballpark budget for a site lease. He said the tower and its existing building are CenturyLink facilities and that carriers and tower operators place strict security and access conditions on such sites. “They asked about separate structure or a separate outdoor cabinet style,” Marty said, noting KOSW already has an equipment building and would describe that in negotiations.
Board members discussed technical tradeoffs: a lower mounting height can require higher transmitter power to achieve the same coverage, and moving the antenna could change which neighboring communities receive a stronger or weaker signal. One board member summarized the local planning goal: “We need to take care of Ocean Shores first. And if we have ultimately some, bonus coverage again, great,” reflecting the priority to improve in-town reception.
Marty said the lease price could be low if the tower has been underutilized, but cautioned there are many “what ifs” tied to allowable height, FAA lighting, and possible changes to the station’s radiation pattern. He said he will share Vertical Bridge’s initial response and any budgetary figures with the board when available.
No formal motion or lease commitment was made at the meeting. The board asked Marty to continue negotiations, to gather budgetary numbers, and to report back to the board when clearer lease terms and technical constraints are known.
