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Telus seeks input over proposed cell tower

In an effort to improve wireless cell phone coverage in the Ponoka area, Telus has proposed a new tower near the Ponoka Stampede Grounds.

In an effort to improve wireless cell phone coverage in the Ponoka area, Telus has proposed a new tower near the Ponoka Stampede Grounds.

Residents are invited to provide input on the 31-metre pole valued at approximately $400,000, explained Telus spokesperson Chris Gerritsen.

If approved, the tower would help coverage, especially during the Ponoka Stampede when the town becomes inundated with rodeo fans. During the Stampede, Telus installed a COW — Cell On Wheels — a temporary fix to ensure coverage.

“We need to add a site to deal with data heavy smart phones,” said Gerritsen.

He says it is early days yet for the proposal, which has a deadline of Nov. 27 for input. Once submitted, the plan would still have to go through Industry Canada. Gerritsen says the company’s goal is to ensure their services are being improved upon.

“It has to fit pieces of a puzzle. That’s why there’s a significant amount of engineering that takes place,” he said.

The proposed location of the tower is on Stampede Grounds land south of Highway 2A and Highway 53.

To provide input, residents can call the Altus Group at 403-410-3150.