By the end of 2018 alone, we’re seeking to upgrade and modernize New York’s existing wireless infrastructure by deploying an additional small cell network of approximately 2,000 low-powered antennas called "small cells" that sit close to the ground, are connected by fiber optic cable, and can handle large amounts of data at high speeds for multiple carriers, with even more in years to come. As New York continues to pursue “smart city” initiatives including traffic management systems (Midtown in Motion) and air pollution monitoring, small cells promise to usher in next-generation networks such as 5G that can make many other medical, educational, and commercial innovations possible. 

Countless people regard New York City as the capital of the world, and with good reason. From media, international affairs, commerce and finance to fashion, technology and entertainment, the Big Apple has an enormous impact. Also, with 8.5 million residents—and an estimated 800 different languages spoken in neighborhoods across its five boroughs—New York is arguably the most culturally vibrant city anywhere, made even more so by the 60 million tourists who visit its business districts, landmarks, museums, stadiums and parks each year. It’s easy to see why the demand for mobile data is growing exponentially here. 

There’s no slowing down in New York, and having fast, reliable wireless connectivity is an absolute must. It’s how people here stay connected. How deals get done. And how public safety is preserved in a time when, in many areas, 80 percent of all emergency calls to police, firefighters and other first responders are made on mobile devices. Small cell solutions, or “small cells,” are key to upgrading and enhancing New York’s wireless coverage and capacity.

Discover more about small cells and the benefits they'll bring to your community.

Small cells are installed in the right of way, often on infrastructure like street signs, utility poles and streetlights. You may have walked by them before without noticing them. Working in partnership with city staff, we plan to enable improved wireless provider service while keeping New York's character intact.

The map above shows proposed areas of activity in New York City.

Crown Castle owns, operates and leases more than 40,000 cell towers and approximately 90,000 route miles of fiber supporting small cells and fiber solutions across every major US market. This nationwide portfolio of communications infrastructure connects cities and communities to essential data, technology and wireless service—bringing information, ideas and innovations to the people and businesses that need them.