PURCELLVILLE, Va., August 18, 2022 — In response to significant public input demanding a higher level of cellular coverage to the residents of Locust Grove and Hirst Farm, as well as, other residents within the southern boundaries of our jurisdiction; the Town Council previously approved a location of a new cellular tower to be erected on land owned by the town adjacent to the Public Works/Waste Water Facility. The tower is necessary to help ensure a higher level of cellular and internet connectivity for our residents. Improved cellular coverage will ensure efficient and effective transmission of 911 calls for police, fire, and rescue enhancing public safety. Tomorrow morning weather permitting, August 19th at 10:00am for approximately three hours, a balloon test* will be conducted on the proposed town cellular site. This test is designed to identify the proposed maximum height of the tower. This test has been required from the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) to evaluate the sight line impact to the Goose Creek Rural Historic District, which is approximately ¾ mile away from the Town’s 2nd Cell Tower site.
*Balloon test means a test for a reasonable period of time to fly, or raise upon a temporary mast, a brightly colored balloon, that is representative in size of the initial antenna array including all standoffs, at the maximum height of the proposed tower.
The Town of Purcellville, Virginia
“Purcellville-your small Town, where history and progress intersect and people prosper,” is an award-winning town of approximately 10,000 residents located in Loudoun County, approximately 50 miles west of Washington, DC. Having received the 2021 Virginia Municipal League Innovation Award for Environmental Sustainability and in years past, the prestigious Siemens Sustainability Award for Small Communities, Purcellville continues to be honored for innovation and green initiatives. The Town most recently received the Tree City USA Award for the 14th consecutive year. The Town was reaffirmed as a AAA rated community by S&P Global Ratings, the highest credit rating possible, and was ranked “Safest City” in Virginia in 2020. Once a stop along the W&OD rail line, which has been converted to a multi-use trail from Alexandria, VA to Purcellville, the Town has maintained its historic old-town feel through the restoration and maintenance of its many downtown structures, reflecting the Victorian architecture popular during the early 1900s. Today, Purcellville is the economic hub of western Loudoun County and a popular weekend destination for antiquing, equestrian activities, farmer’s markets, wineries, breweries, distilleries and restaurants. More info at www.purcellvilleva.gov.
###
