New Cell Tower Caters to Big Canoe

The Big Canoe Community will soon have improved cellular coverageThe Planning Commission this week approved an application for a cellular tower located between Steve Tate Road and Club House Drive. The 195 ft. tower will also serve the surrounding areas, but will be located closest to the Big Canoe Community.

“The chief reason for this tower being requested,”

Planning Director Joey Low said, reading from the application,

“is to improve cellular coverage in the mountainous terrain in Big Canoe and the surrounding areas of the county. This improved coverage will enhance convenience, business usage, and most important, public safety.”

Low said the application was in compliance with county ordinance with one exception. He explained the required 200 foot step-back from the tower including fencing was not met. American Tower Company, which submitted the application, included a variance request in the application, Low said, adding that the planning commission is empowered to approve variances.

The Planning Office also had another concern. Several buildings, Low explained, were within the fall-radius of the tower. Although this is not a violation of county ordinance, Low said the planning commission requests that no building be allowed within this radius. Addressing this concern, a letter from the general manager of the Big Canoe Property Owners Association was included in the application stating that, if the application is approved, Pickens County will remain

“harmless for any incident arising from this situation.”

The planning commission approved the application. Initially, the tower will host only provider, A.T.T., but more are expected to be added after time.