Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Public Safety And Communications topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves AT&T cell site at Kezar Stadium over neighborhood objections (6–1)
Summary
Planning commissioners approved AT&T’s conditional‑use authorization to install antennas on Kezar Stadium light poles to improve park coverage and FirstNet responder capability. Supporters called it a public‑safety improvement; opponents cited RF health concerns, visual impacts and inadequate notice. Vote: 6–1.
The Planning Commission on May 28 approved a conditional‑use authorization (CUA) allowing AT&T to install antennas and remote radio units on Kezar Stadium light poles in Golden Gate Park, along with screened ground equipment and ancillary cabinets. The decision was approved by a 6–1 vote.
Rec & Park’s Dana Ketchum explained the proposal as a low‑impact way to address spotty cellular service on the east side of Golden Gate Park, emphasizing public‑safety needs for visitors, park rangers and the adjacent SFPD park station. AT&T’s team said the site will also support Band 14 (FirstNet) to improve first‑responder communications and that the site selection aimed to minimize changes to the park’s character by using existing poles and screened equipment.
AT&T said the site will deliver more reliable service to Kezar and the east end of the park and will provide approximately $84,000 in annual revenue to Rec & Park. Cammie Blackstone (AT&T) stressed the project’s role in emergencies and noted adjustments made after community input.
Public comment was sharply divided. Local residents and neighborhood groups raised concerns about the adequacy of outreach notices during shelter‑in‑place, the visual and acoustic effects of ground equipment, structural safety on exposed poles, and health worries about radio frequency emissions. Several callers requested an adjournment for further study; others said improved cell service is a clear safety benefit and urged approval.
Commissioners examined alternatives and site constraints; Rec & Park staff noted many park poles are historic and unsuitable for retrofitting. The commission recorded conditions requested by staff and stipulated that Rec & Park will take the lease and installation back to its commission for additional input. The planning commission’s approval authorizes the CUA subject to the conditions presented at the hearing.
