Council approves 155-foot cell tower behind Walmart to boost local coverage
Get AI-powered insights, summaries, and transcripts
Subscribe
Summary
Council approved a preliminary development plan amendment to allow a 155-foot cellular tower and equipment enclosure at the Walmart on W. 136th Ave to improve carrier capacity (Verizon anchor). The applicant emphasized siting behind the building and additional landscaping and screening to minimize trail and visual impacts.
City Council on Jan. 12 voted 6–0 to approve a preliminary development plan amendment that would permit a 155-foot cellular structure and a walled equipment compound on the southern, rear portion of the Walmart property at West 136th Avenue and I‑25. Senior planner Nathan Lawrence said the site was selected to reduce impacts to a nearby multi‑use trail and to minimize visual effects from the interstate and surrounding neighborhoods.
The applicant presented before-and-after coverage maps showing improved capacity and filled gaps during peak periods; Verizon is the initial anchor carrier on the tower, and the applicant said they expect additional carriers to join in time. The design includes a masonry equipment wall matching the Walmart building, replacement planting (applicant committed to remove six trees and plant about 20), and retaining-wall work where needed. No public commenters signed up for the hearing.
Councilors praised the capacity improvements while noting the importance of screening and tree replacement. Staff and the applicant will coordinate construction and landscape replacement during permitting.
Next steps: Applicant to complete permitting, construction agreements, and required landscape and wall installation per approved PDP conditions.