Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan. Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake

Transcription

1 Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake August 2015

2 Table of Contents 1.0 INTRODUCTION PURPOSE - BACKGROUND AND COVERAGE REQUIREMENT PUBLIC CONSULTATION QUADRANTS OF NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE QUADRANT 1 HISTORIC OLD TOWN AND AREA QUADRANT 1, SITE 1- NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE CEMETERY Search Area andevaluation of Site Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Proposed System Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Distance to Residential Engineering Practices Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Archaeological Potential Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 1, SITE 2- OLD TOWN Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Recommended System Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Distance to Residential Engineering Practices Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Consultation with Niagara Parks Commission Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 1, SITE 3- OLD TOWN DOWNTOWN (SMALL CELLS) Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Recommended System Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Recommendation for Implementation i

3 9.0 QUADRANT 1, SITE 4- EAST WEST LINE Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Archaeological Potential Consultation with Niagara Parks Commission Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 2 QUEENSTON-ST. DAVIDS QUADRANT 2, SITE 1 QUEENSTON Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Proposed System Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Distance to Residential Engineering Practices Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 2, SITE 2 ST. DAVIDS Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Proposed System Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Distance to Residential Engineering Practices Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Archaeological Potential Consultation with Niagara Escarpment Commission Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 3 QUEEN ELIZABETH WAY AND AIRPORT QUADRANT 3, SITE 1 YORK ROAD Search Area and Evaluation of ite Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Proposed System Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Distance to Residential Engineering Practices ii

4 14.10 Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 3, SITES 2 AND 3 NIAGARA DISTRICT AIRPORT Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Recommended Site Location Description of Proposed Systems Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Control of Public Access Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Distance to Residential Engineering Practices Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Recommendation for Implementation QUADRANT 4 VIRGIL AND LAKESHORE QUADRANT 4 SITE 1 - MCNAB Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Description of Proposed Systems Archeaological Potential Recommendation for Implementation CONCLUSION iii

5 1.0 INTRODUCTION The on-going increase in the use of cellular devices and broadband internet for personal, business and emergency purposes requires the development of new wireless telecommunications infrastructure within the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This infrastructure includes new antennas and their support structures, which are required to meet the demands of increased capacity and broadening service areas. Without antennas in close proximity to wireless devices, wireless communication is simply not possible. The use of wireless telecommunications is firmly entrenched into Canadian society and economy. Canadians currently use more than 27 million wireless devices on a daily basis including, wireless phones, tablets, pagers, mobile radios, mobile satellite phones and broadband internet devices. Three-quarters of Canadian households have access to a wireless phone, and more than half of all phone connections are wireless. More importantly, each year Canadians place more than six (6) million calls to or other emergency numbers from their mobile phones. In some areas, up to 70% of calls are made with a wireless phone. As part of its on-going commitment to provide high quality wireless services, the Corporation of the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake (the Corporation) has determined that new wireless telecommunications facilities are required and that there is an opportunity to locate many of these facilities on municipally-owned property. Consistent with the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol, the siting of telecommunications facilities on municipally-owned property is preferred as it has the potential to reduce cell tower proliferation and provides the Municipality with a source of revenue. This plan documents the Corporation s site selection processes, the details of the proposals and the applicable Industry Canada provisions. As a general matter, the site selection process is a balanced exercise that must meet network coverage objectives, having regard for land use constraints and the obligation to residents and visitors to ensure a reliable wireless service. Wireless telecommunications facilities are regulated by the Federal Government under Industry Canada and need not follow municipal or provincial planning approvals. However, in recognition of the policy vacuum which exists as a result of that circumstance, Industry Canada requires that wireless telecommunication carriers consult with land use authorities (LUAs). In this particular case, because the majority of towers and other network components are to be located on municipally-owned lands, the LUA has a great deal of control over the siting, appearance and design of the structures and related equipment compounds. The Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake Telecommunication Facilities Protocol describes the requirements and processes for siting wireless telecommunications equipment within the Town boundaries. This Protocol includes details on application processing and market rents, fees for towers, among other requirements. This document is consistent Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 1

6 with the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol, which must be adhered to for the construction of any telecommunications facilities. In consultation with industry participants and experts, the LUA has identified ten (10) locations for the siting of wireless telecommunications structures and equipment. These locations have been identified as areas requiring infrastructure to ensure reliable coverage and capacity to meet current and future wireless telecommunication needs. This plan covers the following proposed telecommunications facilities locations (described in greater detail below): Quadrant 1 Old Town and Area Site 1- Niagara-on-the-Lake Cemetery Site 2- Old Town Site 3- Old Town Downtown (Small Cells) Site 4- East West Line Quadrant 2 Queenston - St. Davids Site 1- Queenston Site 2- St. Davids Quadrant 3 QEW and Airport Site 1- York Road Site 2- Niagara District Airport Site 3- Niagara District Airport Quadrant 4 Virgil and Lakeshore Site 1 McNab In an effort to ensure orderly co-location and sharing of wireless telecommunications structures and equipment, the services of a neutral third-party host to construct, own, and manage the assets is encouraged. This Plan includes the proposals of the major telecommunication carriers in Canada, including: Rogers Communications Inc. (Rogers) Bell Mobility Inc. (Bell Mobility) Telus Mobility Inc. (Telus) Globalive Communications Corp. (WIND) Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 2

7 2.0 PURPOSE - BACKGROUND AND COVERAGE REQUIREMENT A radio antenna and a tower are the two most important parts of a radio communication system. The antenna is needed to send and receive signals for the radio station. The tower raises the antenna above obstructions such as trees and buildings so that it can send and receive these signals clearly. Each radio station and its antenna system (including the tower) provide radio coverage to a specific geographic area, often called a cell. The antenna system must be carefully located to ensure that it provides a good signal over the whole cell area, without interfering with other stations and can carry a call as the user moves from cell to cell. Figure 2.1 If the station is part of a radio telephone network, the number of stations needed also depends on how many people are using the network. If the number of stations is too small, or the number of users increases, people may not be able to connect to the network, or the quality of service may decrease. Figure 2.2 Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 3

8 As the number of users exceeds the capacity of the radio station to receive and send calls, the coverage area for the cell shrinks and the shrinkage between cells creates coverage holes. As demand increases for mobile phones and new telecommunication services, additional towers are required to maintain or improve the quality of service to the public and restore contiguous wireless service. Figure 2.3 As a result of consultation with industry experts, it has been determined that there is a need for a service upgrade to adequately provide continuous coverage and service to certain locations in the community. Currently, the networks are burdened by a combination of poor voice and data quality, specifically in high-use residential areas and transportation corridors. In some cases, the coverage is so poor that a handset would be unable to place a mobile call at all in the subject location and surrounding area. The result of this situation is on-going complaints, high dropped call rates, and in extreme circumstances, the potential inability to place a mobile call that may be absolutely critical in an emergency situation. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 4

9 Figure 2.4 Proponents are encouraged to accommodate multiple carriers on towers and structures, in order to reduce tower proliferation. The use of existing structures and co-location requirements (refer to the Telecommunications Facilities Protocol) minimizes the number of new towers required in a given area and is generally a more cost effective way of doing business. Towers are limited in terms of both allowable space and engineering capacity. Each antenna array requires a separation of vertical space so they do not cause interference with each other. Eventually, most towers reach their engineered maximum. This maximum normally results when more than two carriers occupy the same tower as illustrated in Figure 2.4). Note that Small Cell Antennas are also referred to as Distributed Antenna Systems or DAS. While antenna and tower structures are considered to be the backbone of wireless telecommunications systems, small cell antennas can play an important role in Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 5

10 providing needed capacity to wireless networks. The role of small cell antennas is especially important in densely populated areas such as downtown cores. Small cell antennas have an added benefit of being difficult to notice, and as such, provide little impact on the aesthetics of the surrounding area. The equipment is often located on existing telephone poles or light standards. Small cell antennas are deployed to provide coverage in targeted locations, moving radios closer to the subscriber, and/or to provide additional call and data-handling capacity in areas with concentrated demands for wireless services. Ideally small cell networks are built to accommodate multiple carriers, thereby eliminating the need for duplication of equipment installations. Small Cell Antenna located on top of a light pole. The proposed telecommunications sites identified in this plan are believed to be extremely important in terms of providing coverage to under-serviced areas, and adding capacity to existing networks. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 6

11 3.0 PUBLIC CONSULTATION All carriers (eg. Rogers, Bell Mobility, Telus, WIND) and neutral-host telecommunications infrastructure providers must commit to public consultation as part of the conditions of their operating licenses and to be in compliance with the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. As a result, a public consultation including a circulation of information and a public open house must be held in accordance with the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol for each of the proposed sites contained within this plan. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 7

12 4.0 QUADRANTS OF NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE In order to effectively address the coverage and capacity issues in the Town of Niagaraon-the-Lake, it is helpful to split the municipality into quadrants. Each quadrant has different needs that are planned to be addressed with a combination of towers, rooftops, co-location, and small cells. The following sections will detail the plan for each quadrant (as shown in the map Figure 4.0 Quadrants of Niagara-on-the-Lake). QUADRANT 4 VIRGIL & LAKESHORE QUADRANT 1 OLD TOWN & AREA QUADRANT 3 QEW & AIRPORT QUADRANT 2 QUEENSTON-ST. DAVIDS Figure Quadrants of Niagara-on-the-Lake Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 8

13 5.0 QUADRANT 1 OLD TOWN AND AREA Due to the importance of Historic Old Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake as a tourist destination and the fact that it is home to the majority of residents, this quadrant has the most demand for improved wireless services. Infrastructure is required to be located in strategic locations so that the present and future needs of the community can be met by wireless telecommunications carriers. This goal will be accomplished through a combination of small cells and tower sites. Figure 5.0 Current Telecommunications Infrastructure Quadrant 1 West Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 9

14 6.0 QUADRANT 1, SITE 1- NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE CEMETERY The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity in residential areas along Lakeshore Road, Four Mile Creek Road, and Wall Road. The proposed tower would provide coverage and capacity to much of the area west of the Old Town. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is limited, and insufficient to meet current and future needs. Bell Mobility, Rogers and Telus share a 50-metre selfsupport tower at 1920 Wagg Road. No other carriers are present in the area. 6.1 Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research conducted by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major wireless telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the intersection of Niven Road and Lakeshore Road. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 6.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives of the carriers. Typically, in semi-urban areas, the search area can have a radius of between 300 and 1000 metres. Figure Search Area Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 10

15 6.2 Recommended Site Location The location proposed for a wireless telecommunications site in Quadrant 1 is on the property municipally known 1455 Lakeshore Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake (Figure 6.2 Recommended Location). The property s legal description is: PT MILITARY RESERVE NIAGARA AS IN RO and RO212842; NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE. The site itself is located approximately 480 metres north of Wall Road. The geographic coordinates for the site are as follows: Latitude (NAD 83) N Longitude (NAD 83) W Figure Recommended Location Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 11

16 6.3 Description of Proposed System The proposed system for 1455 Lakeshore Road is a steel lattice tri-pole communications tower that is 50 metres in height. A fenced-in compound would also be constructed, occupying a ground compound area of approximately 215 square metres. A photo rendering (Figure 6.3) is included of the proposed tower. 6.4 Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height The proposed tower has been designed with a height of 50 metres. Due to the large coverage and capacity hole currently in carrier networks in this area, this height is required to provide optimal coverage and to pass on calls and other uses effectively to surrounding towers. The tower would also offload capacity from surrounding sites that are now nearly overloaded due to the density of users in this area. A lattice 50-metre high tri-pole tower allows for up to four (4) different carriers to install their equipment on the tower which minimizes the number of structures required in this area. 6.5 Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Major wireless telecommunications carriers attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment. 6.6 Control of Public Access The facility would include a locked, alarmed and electronically monitored mechanical equipment shelter. Fencing would be installed around the base of the tower and equipment shelter(s) and would include one (1) locked gate access point. 6.7 Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Transport Canada / NAV Canada aeronautical safety requirements. Signum Wireless has made all necessary applications to Transport Canada and NAV Canada. Both Transport Canada and NAV Canada have yet to complete their review of the proposed installation. Signum Wireless will endeavor to provide the results of each respective assessment to the LUA as soon as they become available. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 12

17 Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 13 Figure 6.3 Niagara Lakeshore Cemetery

18 6.8 Distance to Residential The nearest residential unit to the proposed location is approximately 275 metres north-west, as illustrated in Figure 6.8 Distance to Nearest Residential. Figure Distance to Nearest Residential 6.9 Engineering Practices Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will be constructed in compliance with the National Building Code of Canada and comply with good engineering practices including structural adequacy. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 14

19 6.10 Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed tower structure for 1455 Lakeshore Road is in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. In terms of siting, the tower is outside of any settlement area (sec. 4.1) but is designed as a shrouded tri-pole, painted neutral in colour. Being located on municipally-owned property, the proposal also meets the criteria of the Preferred Processing Stream Archaeological Potential The proposed site is within the Zone of Archaeological Potential; therefore an Archaeological Assessment and written confirmation that all archaeological resource concerns have met licencing and resource conservation requirements is required from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport prior to the issuance of a building permit Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed tower is permitted to proceed for Summer Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity in this area of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this tower is a top priority for the carriers. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 15

20 7.0 QUADRANT 1, SITE 2- NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity in Old Town. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient for current and future needs. Rogers has a 45-metre shrouded tri-pole on town property (at 2 Anderson Street) that provides some coverage to the area. Telus and Bell Mobility are hosted on a monopole tower at 176 Wellington Street (at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Hospital). The removal of the pole that stood at 137 Queen Street is a factor in network design. Figure 7.0 Current Telecommunications Infrastructure Quadrant 1 East Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 16

21 7.1 Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the intersection of Victoria Street and Centre Street. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 7.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. Signum Wireless has completed a site visit to the search area and has located a number of potential sites that would meet both engineering requirements and the conditions outlined in the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. Much of the land use within the area was not suitable for a tower structure, meaning that options were limited. Figure Search Area Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 17

22 7.2 Recommended Site Location The proposed location for a wireless telecommunications site is at Veterans Memorial Park, at Veterans Lane and King Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake (Figure 7.2 Recommended Location). The property s legal description is: PT LT 5 RCP 691 NIAGARA NW OF 30R3422; PT LT 4 CLS PL 2 NIAGARA PT 3 30R3422; PT MILITARY RES TP PL 86 NIAGARA PT 2 30R33214 EXCEPT LT 26 PL 237; S/T R E; NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE. The site itself is located approximately 85 metres east of King Street and 100 metres south of the intersection of Nelles and Davey Streets. The geographic coordinates for the site are as follows: Latitude (NAD 83) N Longitude (NAD 83) W Figure Recommended Location Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 18

23 7.3 Description of Recommended System The proposed system for Veterans Memorial Park is a replacement of an existing concrete light standard with a steel monopole design at a slightly increased height of 25 m. The lights for the tennis court would remain and antennas would be added to the top of the structure to provide optimum coverage. The antennas would be shrouded in order to mitigate the visual impact of the structure. An equipment cabinet would need to be placed at the foot of the structure or somewhere near it. Due to the proposed stealth design of the structure, only one carrier (WIND Mobile) could use this proposed location. A photo rendering (Figure 7.3) is included of the proposed tower. 7.4 Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height The proposed tower would be designed with a height of 25 metres. Due to the large coverage and capacity hole in this area, this height is required to provide optimal coverage to the historic downtown area, and to pass on calls and other uses effectively to surrounding towers. Importantly, this system will allow WIND to add capacity to their network in the downtown area, which is crucial for highspeed data connections. Although this tower structure would not allow for co-location, the design does reflect the sensitive treatment that this area of Niagara-on-the-Lake deserves, due to the proximity of the site to Butler s Barracks and other historic and cultural landmarks. 7.5 Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Signum Wireless and its clients attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment. 7.6 Control of Public Access The site facility would include a locked, alarmed and electronically monitored mechanical equipment shelter. 7.7 Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Transport Canada / NAV Canada aeronautical safety requirements. Signum Wireless has made all necessary applications to Transport Canada and NAV Canada. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 19

24 Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 20 Figure 7.3 Memorial Park

25 Both Transport Canada and NAV Canada have yet to complete their review of the proposed installation. Results of each respective assessment will be provided to the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake as soon as they become available. 7.8 Distance to Residential The nearest residential unit to the proposed location is approximately 48 metres north, on Nelles Street, as illustrated in Figure 7.8 Distance to Nearest Residential. Figure Distance to Nearest Residential 7.9 Engineering Practices Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will be constructed in compliance with the National Building Code of Canada and comply with good engineering practices including structural adequacy. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 21

26 7.10 Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed tower structure Veterans Memorial Park is in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. Although the tower is proposed within a settlement area (sec. 4.1), it is designed as a stealth structure, replacing an existing light standard and shrouding the antennas. The proposal meets the criteria of the Preferred Processing Stream Consultation with Parks Canada Parks Canada has been consulted regarding this site Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed tower is permitted to proceed for Summer Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity in the Old Town area of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this tower is a top priority for WIND Mobile. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 22

27 8.0 QUADRANT 1, SITE 3- OLD TOWN DOWNTOWN (SMALL CELLS) The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity in the Old Town, primarily along the Queen Street and Mississagua Street strips. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient for current and future needs. Rogers has a 45-metre shrouded tri-pole on municipally-owned property (at 2 Anderson Street) that provides some coverage to the area. Telus and Bell Mobility are hosted on a monopole tower at 176 Wellington Street (at the Niagara-on-the-Lake Hospital). Figure 8.0.i - Current Telecommunications Infrastructure - Quadrant 1 East Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 23

28 8.1 Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the intersection of Victoria Street and Centre Street. Sites within the search ring on the map below (Figure 8.0.ii Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. Figure 8.0.ii - Search Area Signum Wireless has completed an inspection of the area and has determined that there are a very limited number of potential sites that would meet engineering requirements and the standards outlined in the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. Much of the land use within the area is not suitable for a tower structure, and the heritage of the downtown core demands respect and care. As a result, instead of a typical tower structure, it is proposed that small cell antennas be utilized on existing and new street poles along Queen Street. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 24

29 8.2 Recommended Site Location The proposed location for small cell antennas is along Queen Street, from Niagara Boulevard to Simcoe Street, and Mississagua Street from Balmoral Drive to Queen Street (Figure 8.2 Recommended Small Cell Areas). Figure Recommended Small Cell Areas 8.3 Description of Recommended System The proposed system for the small cell area identified above is a mixture of installations, but would mostly consist of utility pole-mounted infrastructure. An example of the equipment to be installed on poles throughout the area is included (Figure 8.4 Small Cell example). 8.4 Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Signum Wireless and its clients attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 25

30 8.5 Control of Public Access The equipment would not be accessible to the public. All equipment would be mounted on poles above ground level and would be indistinguishable from existing infrastructure mounted to the poles. (Figure 8.4 Mississagua and Queen St Small Cell) 8.6 Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed small cell antennas for Mississagua Street and Queen Street are in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. In terms of siting, the tower is within the primary settlement area but is designed as a small cell system (sec. 4.1). Being located on municipally-owned assets or properties, the small cell proposal also meets the criteria of the Rapid and/or Preferred Processing Stream. 8.7 Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed small cell system is permitted to proceed for Summer 2015 at the very latest. Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity in Historic Old Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, this installation is a top priority for the carriers. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 26

31 Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 27 Figure 8.3 MIssissagua + Queen St Small Cell

32 9.0 QUADRANT 1, SITE 4- EAST WEST LINE The objective for this location is to provide reliable coverage and capacity on the east end of the Old Town, and the Niagara River Parkway, as well as to protect the border from interference from American carrier networks. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient for current and future needs. Rogers has a 45-metre shrouded tri-pole tower on municipally-owned property (at 2 Anderson Street) that provides some coverage to the area. Telus and Bell Mobility are hosted on a monopole tower at 176 Wellington Street (at the Niagara-onthe-Lake Hospital), and Bell Mobility has a 40-metre self-support tower at 1512 Concession One Road. The Town anticipates gaps in coverage and capacity in this area and encourages the accommodation of a new tower in the East-West Line/Niagara River Parkway area. Figure Current Telecommunications Infrastructure - Quadrant 1 East Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 28

33 9.1 Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen along East/West Line. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 9.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. The search area is generally rural and also contains some wineries, historic sites and parkland. This is a site projected to be required over the long term. Specific properties have not been identified as potential candidates that would meet engineering requirements as well as the standards outlined in the Town s draft Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. Figure Search Area Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 29

34 9.2 Archaeological Potential This area is within the Zone of Archaeological Potential; therefore an Archaeological Assessment and written confirmation that all archaeological resource concerns have met licencing and resource conservation requirements is required from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport prior to the issuance of a building permit. 9.3 Consultation with Niagara Parks Commission Due to the proximity of the site to the Niagara River Parkway, Niagara Parks Commission should be consulted. 9.4 Recommendation for Implementation Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity in the Old Town area of Niagara-on-the-Lake, as well as the interference occurring from American cellular networks, this area is a priority for providers. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 30

35 10.0 QUADRANT 2 QUEENSTON-ST. DAVIDS The south-eastern part of Niagara-on-the-Lake is home to two significant communities: Queenston and St. Davids. It is also home to a busy border crossing and a significant National Historic Site (Queenston Heights). Being adjacent to the Niagara Escarpment, the topography of the area poses a significant challenge to carriers. Infrastructure located in strategic locations is encouraged so that the present and future needs of the community can be met by carriers. This coverage will be accomplished through new tower sites. Figure Current Telecommunications Infrastructure - Quadrant 2 East Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 31

36 11.0 QUADRANT 2, SITE 1 QUEENSTON The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity to Queenston, the surrounding area, and the Niagara River Parkway. It will also protect the border from interference from American carrier networks. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient for current and future needs. WIND Mobile has a rooftop installation at the Queenston-Lewiston border crossing. Rogers, Telus and Bell Mobility each have towers on the west side of the Sir Adam Beck Hydroelectric Station Reservoir that provides coverage and capacity to Highway 405 and areas south of the highway. All of these nearby sites provide little to no coverage to the Queenston settlement area Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the intersection of Niagara River Parkway and Dee Road. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 11.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. After visiting the search area, Signum Wireless identified a number of potential sites that would meet engineering requirements as well as the standards outlined in the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 32

37 Figure Search Area 11.2 Recommended Site Location The property s legal description is: PT TWP LT 6 NIAGARA; PT TWP LT 7 NIAGARA; PT LT 1 CP PL 1 NIAGARA AS IN RO & PTS 1 & 2 30R3962; S/T RO86849; NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE The site itself is located approximately 330 metres west of Niagara River Parkway. The geographic coordinates for the site are as follows:; Latitude (NAD 83) N Longitude (NAD 83) W Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 33

38 Figure Proposed Location 11.3 Description of Proposed System The proposed system for 1501 Line 8 Road is a steel shrouded flagpole tower that is 30 metres in height. A fenced-in compound would also be constructed Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height The proposed tower has been designed with a height of 30 metres. This height is required to provide optimal coverage to the Queenston area, as there is a significant coverage hole in many carriers networks. A shrouded flagpole tower at a height of 30 metres would provide some integration of the structure into the area; however, it would also limit the extent to which multiple carriers could use the tower. Carriers recognize that the Niagara River Parkway, the Niagara River shoreline, and the Queenston area are cultural heritage landscapes and scenic assets that shall be protected to the greatest reasonable extent. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 34

39 11.5 Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Rogers attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment Control of Public Access The site facility would include a locked, alarmed and electronically monitored mechanical equipment cabinet. Fencing would be installed around the base of the tower and equipment shelter(s) and would include one locked gate access point Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Rogers attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Transport Canada / NAV Canada aeronautical safety requirements. Signum Wireless has made all necessary applications to Transport Canada and NAV Canada. Both Transport Canada and NAV Canada have yet to complete their review of the proposed installation. Results of each respective assessment will be provided to the LUA as soon as they become available Distance to Residential The proposed site is within an area of short term accommodation. The nearest residential unit to the proposed location is approximately 275 metres east, as illustrated in Figure 11.8 Distance to Nearest Residential. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 35

40 11.9 Engineering Practices Figure Distance to Nearest Residential Rogers attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will be constructed in compliance with the National Building Code of Canada and comply with good engineering practices including structural adequacy Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed tower structure for 1501 Line 8 Road is in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. The tower is to be located outside of the Queenston settlement area (Sec. 4.1). Furthermore, it is designed as a shrouded tri-pole, painted neutral in colour. Rogers has already conducted a public consultation for this site, and so the structure will not be evaluated under any of the new processing streams. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 36

41 11.11 Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed tower is permitted to proceed for Summer Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity in the Queenston, and the dearth of existing infrastructure in the surrounding area, this tower is a top priority for the carriers. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 37

42 12.0 QUADRANT 2, SITE 2 ST. DAVIDS The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity to St. Davids and the surrounding area, as well as the General Brock Parkway. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient for current and future needs. The majority of the existing coverage and capacity in this area is being transmitted from tower sites in Niagara Falls, along the Stanley Avenue corridor. There are three towers in this area: a 40-metre WIND monopole; a 50-metre Telus monopole and, a 40-metre Bell Mobility monopole. A 50-metre Rogers tower is the only one providing service to St. Davids from within the Town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. This type of tower proliferation shall be avoided in the future. Figure Current Telecommunications Infrastructure - Quadrant 2 West Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 38

43 12.1 Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the intersection of York Road and Four Mile Creek Road. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 12.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. Figure Search Area After visiting the search area, Signum Wireless has identified a number of potential sites that would meet engineering requirements as well as the standards outlined in the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. The search area contains mostly residential properties which, to a certain extent, limit location options Recommended Site Location The proposed location for a wireless telecommunications site is located at 745 Warner Road (Fire Hall District No. 2) (Figure 12.2 Recommended Location). Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 39

44 The property s legal description is: PT TWP LT 90 NIAGARA PT 1, 2 30R1839; NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE. The site itself is located approximately 55 metres east of Tanbark Road. The geographic coordinates for the site are as follows: Latitude (NAD 83) N Longitude (NAD 83) W Figure Proposed Location 12.3 Description of Proposed System The proposed system for 745 Warner Road is a steel shrouded tri-pole tower that is 40 metres in height. A fenced-in compound would also be constructed, and would occupy an area of approximately 134 square metres. A photo rendition of the proposed tower is shown below (Figure 12.3 St. Davids Firehall). Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 40

45 Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 41 Figure 12.3 St. Davids Firehall

46 12.4 Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height The proposed tower has been designed with a height of 40 metres. This height is required to provide optimal capacity relief to surrounding towers that are almost overloaded due to the density of users in this area. A shrouded tri-pole tower at a height of 40 metres would mitigate the visual impact of the structure. Up to three carriers could be accommodated on the structure Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Signum Wireless and its clients attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment Control of Public Access The site facility would include a locked, alarmed and electronically monitored mechanical equipment shelter. Fencing would be installed around the base of the tower and equipment shelter(s) and would include one locked gate access point Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Transport Canada / NAV Canada aeronautical safety requirements. Signum Wireless has made all necessary applications to Transport Canada and NAV Canada. Both Transport Canada and NAV Canada have yet to complete their review of the proposed installation. Signum Wireless will endeavor to provide the results of each respective assessment to the LUA as soon as they become available Distance to Residential The nearest residential unit to the proposed location is approximately 75 metres south, as illustrated in Figure 12.8 Distance to Nearest Residential. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 42

47 12.9 Engineering Practices Figure Distance to Nearest Residential Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will be constructed in compliance with the National Building Code of Canada and comply with good engineering practices including structural adequacy Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed tower structure for 745 Warner Road is in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. Although the tower is proposed within a settlement area (Sec. 4.1), it is designed as a shrouded tripole, painted neutral in colour. Being located on municipally-owned property, the proposal also meets the criteria of the Preferred Processing Stream. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 43

48 12.11 Archaeological Potential The proposed site is within the Zone of Archaeological Potential; therefore an Archaeological Assessment and written confirmation that all archaeological resource concerns have met licencing and resource conservation requirements is required from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport prior to the issuance of a building permit Consultation with Niagara Escarpment Commission The site is located outside the Niagara Escarpment Control area; therefore, no permit is required from the Niagara Escarpment Commission (NEC). However, the NEC has been consulted so that they may review the proposal relating to the Minor Urban Centre policies of the Niagara Escarpment Plan which cover this property Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed tower is permitted to proceed for Fall Given the dearth of existing infrastructure in the St. Davids area, this structure will soon be needed to improve upon existing coverage and capacity. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 44

49 13.0 QUADRANT 3 QUEEN ELIZABETH WAY AND AIRPORT The southwestern part of Niagara-on-the-Lake serves as the entry point into the Town for many visitors and residents alike. The Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW) is a gateway to the Town and carries most of the automobile traffic into the area from the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton. The area also serves as a gateway for those travelling by plane, as it hosts the Niagara District Airport. The Outlet Collection at Niagara, Niagara College, and other major attractions make this area especially critical for carriers. Infrastructure is required to be located in strategic locations so that the present and future needs of the community can be met by carriers. This goal will be accomplished through new tower sites. Figure Current Telecommunications Infrastructure - Quadrant 3 South Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 45

50 14.0 QUADRANT 3, SITE 1 YORK ROAD The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity to the QEW, the outlet mall, and surrounding residential areas. The existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient, even for current needs. Rogers has a 50-metre self-support tower at 571 York Road, on which Bell Mobility and Telus are co-located. Bell Mobility has a rooftop/concealed installation at Niagara College at a height of 25 metres and Public Mobile (now owned by Telus) and shares a rooftop installation at 500 York Road with WIND. This concentration of equipment in the area indicates that there is a great volume of users that demand high data speeds and contiguous call coverage. The recent addition of a major outlet mall to this area has exacerbated an already challenging situation for some of the carriers Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the Outlet Collection of Niagara area and York Road. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 14.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. After visiting the search area, Signum Wireless has identified a number of potential sites that would meet engineering requirements as well as the standards outlined in the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 46

51 Figure Search Area 14.2 Recommended Site Location The property s legal description is: PCL 3-1 SEC CONCESSION 9 TOWN OF NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE; PT LT 3 CON 9 GRANTHAM PT 1 30R2566; S/T LT34043 NIAGARA ON THE LAKE. The site itself is located approximately 330 metres west of the intersection of Airport Road and York Road. The geographic coordinates for the site are as follows: Latitude (NAD 83) N Longitude (NAD 83) W Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 47

52 Figure Proposed Location 14.3 Description of Proposed System The proposed system for 360 York Road is a steel lattice tri-pole communications tower that is 27 metres in height. A fenced-in compound would also be constructed, and would occupy an area of approximately 149 square metres. The municipality proposes to install antenna and microwave equipment. The tower would initially provide wireless voice and data services for subscribers to carriers networks. Furthermore, expressions of interest in the proposed tower have been received from the Fire Department. The Fire Department will be consulted in terms of how best to accommodate their communications equipment. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 48

53 14.4 Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height The proposed tower has been designed with a height of 27 metres. Due to the large coverage and capacity hole, this height is required to provide optimal coverage to the area and to pass on calls and other uses effectively to surrounding towers. The tower would also offload capacity from surrounding sites that are currently nearly overloaded due to the density of users in this area. The QEW and the outlet mall have both contributed to growth in demand for wireless services. A lattice tri-pole tower at a height of 27 metres allows for up to three (3) different carriers to install their equipment. This co-location reduces the number of towers required in this area and will accommodate the Fire Department s emergency radio communications equipment Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Signum Wireless and its clients attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment Control of Public Access The site facility would include a locked, alarmed and electronically monitored mechanical equipment shelter. Fencing would be installed around the base of the tower and equipment shelter(s) and would include one (1) locked gate access point Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Signum Wireless has already undertaken due diligence regarding aeronautical safety, as the Niagara District Airport is within six (6) kilometers of the proposed site. Through this due diligence, Signum Wireless has determined that the maximum allowable height for a structure in this area is 27 metres. Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Transport Canada / NAV Canada aeronautical safety requirements. Signum Wireless has made all necessary applications to Transport Canada and NAV Canada. Both Transport Canada and NAV Canada have yet to complete their review of the proposed installation. Results of each respective assessment will be provided to the LUA as soon as they become available. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 49

54 14.8 Distance to Residential The nearest residential unit to the proposed location is approximately 285 metres north, as illustrated in Figure 14.8 Distance to Nearest Residential Engineering Practices Figure Distance to Nearest Residential Signum Wireless attests that the radio antenna system described in this section will be constructed in compliance with the National Building Code of Canada and comply with good engineering practices including structural adequacy Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed tower structure for 360 York Road is in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. Although the tower is proposed within a settlement area (Sec. 4.1), it is located away from established residential areas and other sensitive uses. It is also located in an area Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 50

55 designated for Prestige Industrial in the Official Plan, and next to the QEW, which are compatible uses. At the time of writing, the proposal is undergoing a public consultation process in accordance with the 2003 Radio and Telecommunications Tower / Antenna Structures Policy (PDS-PLG-008) Archaeological Potential This site is within the Zone of Archaeological Potential; therefore an Archaeological Assessment and written confirmation that all archaeological resource concerns have met licencing and resource conservation requirements is required from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport prior to the issuance of a building permit Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed tower is permitted to proceed for Summer 2015 at the very latest. Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity along the QEW, and the increased wireless services use due to the new outlet mall, this tower is a top priority for Signum Wireless and its clients. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 51

56 15.0 QUADRANT 3, SITES 2 AND 3 NIAGARA DISTRICT AIRPORT The objective for these locations is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity to the Niagara District Airport, as well as the surrounding area. Existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity is insufficient, as there is only one structure within a 3-kilometre radius of the airport. Public Mobile (now owned by Telus) has a 40-metre lattice tri-pole tower at 569 Niagara Stone Road, directly across the road from the Airport. Figure 15 - Current Telecommunications Infrastructure - Quadrant 3 North 15.1 Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the Niagara District Airport. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 15.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives of the carriers networks. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 52

57 Figure Search Area After visiting the search area, Signum Wireless has identified a number of potential sites that would meet engineering requirements as well as the standards outlined in the Telecommunication Facilities Protocol Recommended Site Location In order to effectively address coverage issues, it is recommended that three (3) towers be constructed on the Niagara District Airport property. These towers will serve to maximize coverage improvements as well as revenue for the airport. The property s legal description is: LT CP PL 5 GRANTHAM; PT LT CP PL 5 GRANTHAM ; PT LT 2-4 CON 6 GRANTHAM; PT RDAL BTN LOTS 2 & 3 CON 5 GRANTHAM; PT RDAL BTN LOTS 2 & 3 CON 6 GRANTHAM CLOSED BY RO187666; PT RDAL BTN CON 5 & CON 6 GRANTHAM PT 1, 2 & 3, 30R5602; S/T GRN33333, GRN33336; NIAGARA-ON- THE-LAKE Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 53

58 The sites are located approximately a minimum of 330 metres from Niagara Stone Road. The geographic coordinates for the sites are as follows: Latitude (NAD 83) N Longitude (NAD 83) W Figure Proposed Location 15.3 Description of Proposed Systems The proposed systems for the Niagara District Airport are three (3) steel monopole communications towers that are 22 metres in height each. A fenced-in compound would also be constructed for each, and would occupy an area of approximately 100 square metres. Bell Mobility and Rogers propose to install antenna and microwave equipment on each respective tower. The towers would initially provide wireless voice and data Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 54

59 services for carrier networks. A photo rendition of a tower at this location is included (Figure 15.3) Statement Indicating Need for Tower Height The proposed towers have been designed with a height of 22 metres. Due to the large coverage and capacity hole currently in the area surrounding the airport for Rogers and Bell Mobility, this height is required to provide optimal coverage to the area, and to pass on calls and other uses effectively to surrounding towers in the network. Normally, this coverage would be achieved by installing a single taller tower, however due to the obvious limitations of locating the structures next to an airport, multiple structures are required Health Canada s Safety Code 6 Compliance Rogers and Bell Mobility attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will comply with Health Canada s Safety Code 6 limits, as may be amended from time to time, for the protection of the general public including any combined effects of additional carrier co-locations and nearby installations within the local radio environment Control of Public Access Each site facility would include a locked, alarmed and electronically monitored mechanical equipment shelter. Fencing would be installed around the base of the tower and equipment shelter(s) and would include one (1) locked gate access point. In addition, the towers would be located in areas of the airport grounds that are off-limits to the public Transport Canada s Aeronautical Obstruction Marking Requirements Rogers and Bell Mobility attest that the radio antenna systems described in this section will comply with Transport Canada / NAV Canada aeronautical safety requirements. Both proponents have made all necessary applications to Transport Canada and NAV Canada. Both Transport Canada and NAV Canada have yet to complete their review of the proposed installation. The results of each respective assessment will be provided to the LUA as soon as they become available. Due to the proximity of the sites to the airport, it is expected that some type of aeronautical markings will be required. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 55

60 Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 56 Figure 15.3 Niagara Airport

61 15.8 Distance to Residential The nearest residential unit to the proposed locations is approximately 220 metres south-east, as illustrated in Figure 15.8 Distance to Nearest Residential. Figure Distance to Nearest Residential 15.9 Engineering Practices Rogers and Bell Mobility attest that the radio antenna system described in this section will be constructed in compliance with the National Building Code of Canada and comply with good engineering practices including structural adequacy. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 57

62 15.10 Compliance with Telecommunication Facilities Protocol The proposed tower structures for the Niagara District Airport area in compliance with location and design guidelines contained within the Protocol. The towers are proposed to be located outside of a sensitive area including a Settlement Area (Sec. 4.1). Unless NAV/Transport Canada require otherwise, the towers will be painted of a neutral colour, and are set well back from existing residential units. The airport is also considered to be a complimentary land use to telecommunications infrastructure. Being located on municipally-owned property, the proposal also meets the criteria of the Preferred Processing Stream and maximizes revenue potential for the Municipality and the Airport Recommendation for Implementation It is recommended that the proposed towers are permitted to proceed for Fall 2015 at the very latest. Given the large demand for improved wireless coverage and capacity around the Airport, as well as the fact that this area serves as a gateway to the rest of the town, it is imperative that these structures are built within the next year. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 58

63 16.0 QUADRANT 4 VIRGIL AND LAKESHORE Quadrant 4 consists of one significant settlement area and the northwest portion of the municipality. Virgil is the second-most populous Urban Area in Niagara-on-the-Lake. This quadrant is adjacent to Port Weller, which straddles the Welland Canal and is within the City of St Catharines boundary. Unlike the Old Town area, both this quadrant contains significant industrial and commercial areas which are more suitable for tower structures. As a result, and in contrast to the previous three (3) identified quadrants in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Quadrant 4 is currently well-served by the carriers. Below, Figure 16.0.i Existing Infrastructure in Quadrant 4 West and Figure 16.0.ii Existing Infrastructure in Quadrant 4 East show the existing infrastructure in the western (Port Weller) and eastern (Virgil) sections of Quadrant 4. In the West section, Niagara-on-the-Lake receives coverage from towers in St. Catharines, across the Welland Canal, as well as a Bell Mobility self-support tower on Read Road in Port Weller. Figure 16.0.i - Existing Infrastructure in Quadrant 4 West Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 59

64 In the eastern section of Quadrant 4, carriers have co-operated well, and as a result, there are only two towers in this area. Virgil itself is largely covered by equipment placed on the Virgil water tower. Figure 16.0.ii - Existing Infrastructure in Quadrant 4 East Current research indicates that new equipment is not required in this quadrant of Niagara-on-the-Lake on an urgent basis. Significant population growth is not expected for Virgil, and the number of users is not expected to increase substantially within the next five (5) years. However, as usage of data continues to rise, the Town should anticipate the need for a new structure in this quadrant to fill in the geographical gap. Therefore, one new structure is recommended. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 60

65 17.0 QUADRANT 4 SITE 1 MCNAB ROAD The objective for this location is to provide the infrastructure for reliable coverage and capacity to the McNab Road area. In addition, existing sites in this area are over five (5) kilometres apart, which will eventually necessitate a new site to improve capacity and coverage. The existing telecommunications infrastructure in the vicinity will likely become insufficient, within the next five (5) years. As previously stated, carriers have actually cooperated well for the most part in this quadrant, resulting in minimal tower proliferation. The Town should endeavor to anticipate future gaps in coverage and capacity by accommodating a new tower in the McNab area Search Area and Evaluation of Site Location Options Based on research by Radio Frequency Engineering teams at major telecommunication carriers, a general search area location was chosen centered on the intersection of Lakeshore Road and Irvine Road. A site within the search ring on the map below (Figure 14.1 Search Area) would, from an engineering point of view, meet the coverage objectives. As this is a site projected to be required over the long term, specific properties have not been identified as potential candidates that would meet engineering requirements as well as the standards outlined in the Town s draft Telecommunication Facilities Protocol. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 61

66 Figure 17.1 Search Area 17.2 Description of Proposed System The proposed system for this search area is a steel lattice tri-pole communications tower that should be at least 50 metres in height. This height would maximize the co-location capacity of the tower and prevent the need for more tower structures in the Quadrant for the near future Archaeological Potential This area is within the Zone of Archaeological Potential; therefore an Archaeological Assessment and written confirmation that all archaeological resource concerns have met licencing and resource conservation requirements is required from the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport prior to the issuance of a building permit. Niagara-on-the-Lake Comprehensive Telecommunications Plan (August 2015) Page 62