Driving network densification and delivering 5G with small cells

The deployment of 5G is very much an exercise in network densification. Coming down from the to macro tower, operators are deploying small cells and other integrated radio/antenna units connected to centralized baseband resources. And while regulators like the Federal Communications Commission are working to make the deployment process more efficient by cutting down on necessary reviews, the fact stands that small cell projects are unpredictable due to the varying zoning and planning rules in cities across the country. To get an idea of what operators, neutral hosts and other network infrastructure owners are facing, look at what’s going on Doylestown Borough, Penn. According to Philadelphia-based The Inquirer, a Verizon plan to deploy telephone-and streetlight-mounted small cells in the town sparked some concerns from residents, which prompted the local council to host 10 public meetings. The town’s fight ultimately went to state then federal court resulting in a settlement wherein the number of sites was reduced and concealment techniques were employed. The city also got a revenue-share arrangement from Verizon. Council President Jack O’Brien said, “We didn’t feel they had the right to come and do what they want.” A small cell discussion is also playing out in San Rafael, Calif. Government Technology reports on a pre-emptive push to adjust telecom-related regulations to “protect residential areas, schools and parks through setbacks and attention to power profiles,” Vicki Sievers, a local activist said in an email to the publication.  “Our effort has to do with making pre-emptive strikes before Verizon, AT&T [and others]actually make formal applications to each town and city.