By Carol Stiffler

A proposed new Verizon tower could make communication easier on the northwestern side of Newberry. The tower was discussed and unanimously approved at the Luce County Planning Commission meeting held April 28.

The tower, owned by TowerCo 2013, LLC, would be placed on undeveloped land north of County Road 405, at the western end of Harrie Street. Construction could begin this fall. Once erected, the tower could be operational within a couple months.

The live tower will be solely used by Verizon for its first 12 months, after which other carriers can opt to place an antenna on the tower as well.

Verizon currently has an antenna on the orange Village of Newberry water tower and will remove that equipment once the new tower is operating.

Feedback from the Luce County Planning Commission indicated the new tower is a welcome enhancement in the community.