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This is an archived news release. It may contain outdated contact names, telephone numbers, Web links, or other information. For up-to-date information visit GSA.gov pages by topic or contact a public affairs officer at 202-501-1231. For a list of public affairs officers by beat, visit the GSA Public Affairs page.

First "Antenna" Forum Hailed as PositiveSecond Forum Scheduled for March 19th

GSA # 9390

March 14, 1997
Contact: Johanna Roark
(202) 501-1231


On March 5th, the General Services Administration (GSA) conducted the first in a series of three Forums on siting of wireless antennas on Federal property. The Forums are being held to identify and address industry and agency concerns.

"These collaborative Forums provide an opportunity for Federal agencies and industry representatives to share experiences and information," said David J. Barram, Acting Administrator, GSA. "In addition, these meetings can help streamline the process for siting antennas and can positively contribute to the Information Superhighway, one of the Administration's key objectives," said Barram.

Speaking at the first Forum, Jeffrey Steinberg, Special Counsel, Commercial Wireless Telecommunications Bureau, Federal Communications Commission provided an overview of the latest telecommunications technology. He also discussed the different types of spectrums auctioned by FCC, and provided information on customer services such as the FCC Facilities Siting Task Force and their web site-- HTTP://WWW.FCC.GOV/WTB/WWIREHOME.HTML. During the Forum, Federal agencies shared their experiences on antenna siting issues. "The results were a positive first step," said David Bibb, Deputy Associate Administrator, Office of Real Property,Office of Governmentwide Policy (OGP). "We identified a number of successes and effective practices and also discussed issues we will work together on resolving including lease pricing and fee reimbursement," said Bibb.

The second Forum is scheduled for March 19th. Members of the wireless telecommunications industry will present problems and voice concerns, viewpoints and recommendations for refinement of the program, as well as hear feedback from Federal agencies. The third Forum, scheduled for April 15th, will bring together Federal agencies and industry representatives for an educational exchange.

The procedures for placing commercial wireless telecommunications antennas on Federal property were officially announced through GSA Notice in the Federal Register on March 29, 1996. This followed several GSA sponsored meetings and guidance issued in 1995. The GSA Notice carries out an August 1995 directive from President Clinton to executive branch agencies and supports the 1996 Telecommunications Act. Both were intended to help jump-start competition in state-of-the-art telecommunications while maintaining essential Federal programs and services.

For more information on the Forums, please contact Margie Lomax, Office of Real Property, OGP, at (202) 501-0379.

Last Reviewed 2010-04-30
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