In 2018, the FCC (Federal Communications Commission) mandated to extend the cellular networks using small-cells and stepped forward to adopt the 5G cellular network. Small-cells are low-powered antennas that provide cellular and data coverage to supplement and stretch the network providers’ microcell networks. Small-cells are deployed to increase the mobile network capacity and coverage in localized areas. This new technology requires significant infrastructure development that will potentially affect the aesthetics and function of public streets and spaces. This is simply because small-cells can be deployed in numerous posts in the current transportation infrastructures, such as mounting small-cells on existing streetlights, utility poles, traffic signals, or employing standalone pole installations. To date, twenty-two states have acted and passed legislation to deploy small-cells. However, there are numerous challenges encountered by State DOTs regarding the small-cell deployment in their existing transportation infrastructures. The challenges exist in safety, planning, construction, contract execution, implementation, operation, and maintenance activities.

 One of the major concerns is the electromagnetic fields given off by such technology. The general public has historically been leery of small-cell technology and its effects on the human body. The research and literature review showed that the deployment of small-cell technology does not adversely affect the tissues in the human body. Another major concern is the potential locations for small-cell technologies. They need to be centrally located in highly populated areas and mostly unobstructed. Outdoor areas such as sidewalks and street corners would be ideal locations for small-cell deployments. Another area of consideration is the height of small-cell antennas. With the potential for an electromagnetic field, the location of the antenna is best suited at 30 ft or higher. Potential locations for small-cell technologies include light poles, streetlights, bus stops, billboards, and water towers. A major concern related to location is the weight and size of the small technology. The current infrastructure was not designed for the additional loading of small-cell equipment. Also, the size of the technology could be a potential issue from aesthetic and structural standpoints. Cities do not want eyesores on their light poles and traffic signals. Some cities have found ways to camouflage the small-cell technology to ensure it is aesthetically pleasing.

 Despite such limitations, small-cells are expected to provide robust support for automated and connected vehicles to operate safely. Furthermore, the small-cell technology will play a significant role in the 5G telecommunication network, which will be able to transfer high definition video data due to its high demand in today’s infrastructure in major cities and offer many more benefits will come along with it. This paper will highlight various challenges in deploying small-cells in the current transportation infrastructures and the steps needed to overcome the obstacles and achieve benefits from the opportunities.     

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483541.032

On the adoption of 5G cellular network using small-cells in transportation infrastructure

ASCE International Conference on Transportation & Development (ICTD 2021) is organized by the Transportation & Development Institute (T&DI) of ASCE to facilitate the exchange of information, knowledge, and best practices among transportation and development practitioners and researchers, public infrastructure owners, policymakers, government engineers and planners, operations managers, and leading academics from around the world.

Paper Proceedings: https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483534 | https://doi.org/10.1061/9780784483541

Conference DOI: https://doi.org/10.26226/m.631784867747920012e73503