More and more schools are integrating wireless technology into the classrooms. In the past, cell phones were a “no-no” for students in a school setting; however, today they are highly welcomed, if not encouraged. The educational value of mobile devices has made their presence conducive to a learning environment. However, a high percentage of schools throughout the United States do not have the infrastructure to support digital learning. According to USA Today, “President Obama announced the ConnectED initiative on June 6, which aims to connect 99% of schools around the country to broadband Internet, and the Department of Education is working to prepare teachers to use technology.”
This initiative to improve wireless technology is going to create the need for more cell tower infrastructure, or adding to existing equipment, to support the growing demand for mobile device services at schools across the country. Vertical Consultants has worked with all types of property owners who are being paid below-market value for the use of their property to house such infrastructure. The primary reason for this is the lack of information and representation provided for these entities. Ample information and representation from a true landowner advocate are key factors these industries need in order to optimize the use of their properties. Vertical Consultants has made its mission to provide our clients the data they need. While telecom companies have professionals on their side who know the true value of every tower site they control, property owners should have advocates working for them determining options to optimize their telecom assets.