Verizon Wireless connects to Springfield

The New Jersey-based telecommunications company – a division of Verizon Communications Inc. in New York City – recently announced that it spent more than $125 million last year enhancing its digital network in Missouri, Kansas and southern Illinois, where it activated 107 new cell sites and upgraded 1,445 existing ones.

One of the company’s goals is to expand its high-speed wireless broadband network to “many new markets,” according to a Feb. 6 news release.

Last April, Verizon purchased the operating assets of Mid-Missouri Cellular to expand its network footprint in seven central Missouri counties. The sale included 27 cell sites and related equipment.

Verizon spokeswoman Cheryl Bini in St. Louis would not comment on whether the company plans to open stores in the Springfield area this year, but she did say a move into the market is under consideration.

“It’s too premature to announce anything, but we are looking into the area,” Bini said, hinting that Verizon is canvassing the region for real estate to expand its infrastructure.

Christian County has emerged as a hotspot of cellular activity in recent months, said Senior Planner Bob Atchley. Verizon Wireless is currently seeking Christian County Planning and Zoning Commission approval for two cell sites, Atchley said.

Verizon has plans to build a 250-foot self-supporting tower on 98 acres south of Woods Fork Road near Highlandville, according to one of the applications. The proposed tower would occupy 1,000 square feet and would have five spaces available for antenna collocation.

In Nixa, Verizon is proposing a cell tower on the west side of a city-owned water tower off of Gregg Road, Atchley said. The company also is seeking a land-use change for a proposed equipment building adjacent to the tower on property in the county.

In neighboring Ozark, Alltel received approval in December for two new towers, Atchley added.

In Webster County, another cell tower is going up along Interstate 44 near Northview. Thomas Masteller, who owns a junkyard near the site, said Verizon recently contacted him about leasing part of his property for a new tower.

“I know Verizon’s looking in the area,” he said.