To the Editor,
I was gratified to see that Tracy Ford presented an ultimately positive view of the tower industry in her Nov. 18 editorial, as PCIA also sees great promise for the tower industry, which we represent. Specifically, I want to point out a few developments that will have a positive effect on the tower industry and lead to substantive growth in 2003.
Anticipating resolution of the NextWave Supreme Court battle next spring, new spectrum will soon become available. Regardless of who is ultimately licensed to use that spectrum-NextWave, others it might sell to, or winners of a future auction-its availability will prompt network buildout.
Wireless penetration rates continue to rise, exceeding 50 percent in major U.S. markets. More wireless services demanded by more people will logically yield an increase in cell density and network buildout. And while it may be at a modest rate, buildout does continue.
Finally, it is clear that local number portability will dramatically change the competitive landscape among carriers. Buckets of minutes will be less important while quality and reliability of service will be absolutely critical to a carrier’s ability to decrease churn. More towers and antennas are proven means for improving network quality and reliability.
These are all positive developments for wireless infrastructure companies. And at PCIA, as the only advocate for the tower industry, we will continue our efforts at the local, state and federal levels to ensure that every American has access to the highest quality wireless communications. We’re doing this because we believe that wireless infrastructure companies are not just vital to wireless telecom, but that they are also viable businesses that have a great future ahead.
Jay Kitchen
President & CEO
PCIA
