The location of the VoiceStream Wireless tower on the roof of CVS raises concerns about the potential health threat to Williamsburg neighbors (particularly near neighbors), CVS shoppers, and CVS employees. Maureen Kane Smith, the Zoning Supervisor at VoiceStream Wireless, has provided the following specifications:

"We are using EMS-RR90-18-00DP antennas, with 0 mechanical or electrical downtilt. These antennas have a horizontal beamwidth of 90 degrees and a Vertical beamwidth of 4.5 degrees (This means that most of our signal is directed at the horizon). The antenna gain is 17.5 dBi(15.4 dBd). The output power of the base station is 43 dBm. The loss of the cable and connectors equal approximately 3 dB. This leaves us with ERP = 43 + 15.4 - 3 = 55.5 dBm (355 W). The azimuths of the antenna's are 15,135, 255 and there is one transmitter per antenna. We will be transmitting in the 1965-1975 MHz range."

We are providing the text of Ms Kanes letter on this issue for those residents who have asked for details so that they can consult their physicians. If you need additional details, please contact Maureen Kane Smith, VoiceStream Wireless, 12050 Baltimor Avenue, Beltsville, Maryland. Her phone number is 240-264-8611. Her fax is 240-264-8610. Or, you can email her. If you uncover any further information that would be of use to other Williamsburg neighbors, please email the web editor, so we can add the information to the web site.

For more information on FCC regulations on cell towers, see the FCC Policy on Human Exposure to Radiofrequency Electromagnetic fields.

For a summary docment recommended by Ms Kane that covers some of the medical studies on this issue, see Electromagnetic Fields and Human Health. Some neighbors feel that this latter study tends to minimize the risks. If you know of other material on the health risks, please email the web editor so we can add it to the web site.

Return Home