The East Stroudsburg Area School District's Property & Facilities Committee discussed a proposal from AT&T to install a mini cell site on the North Campus during their meeting on October 1. This initiative aims to enhance cellular service in the area, which currently suffers from limited connectivity.
The proposed site is located near the soccer fields, where AT&T representatives have already conducted a site visit and expressed their approval. The draft agreement presented to the committee outlines a revenue plan of $4,800 annually, which translates to $400 per month. Additionally, AT&T will compensate the district for the power used by the mini cell site, as the current electrical setup does not allow for a submeter installation.
Committee members noted that the mini cell site would consist of small antennas mounted on a light pole, similar to existing installations at the Administration Center and the high school parking lot. This addition is expected to improve cell service significantly, as current options are limited, with users often struggling to get a reliable signal.
The agreement includes provisions for a potential increase in revenue after five years, with a scheduled bump of 5 to 10 percent, along with adjustments for electrical usage. The committee is considering whether to move forward with the proposal, which could provide both financial benefits and improved communication services for students and staff on campus.
As the district evaluates this opportunity, the decision will play a crucial role in addressing the community's connectivity needs, ensuring that students and faculty have access to reliable mobile services.