LAKEWOOD, Colo. — Some parents in Lakewood are worried about the well-being of their children if a planned cell tower is built near their children’s school.
The tower would be located on property at St. Jude’s Church, owned by the Archdiocese of Denver. While near some trees, it is footsteps away from a playground.
Denver7 reached out to the archdiocese, but no one was able to respond.
"I'm always an advocate for my children on every level, and I was shocked when I found that they would put something so close to a playground like this,” said parent Anita Springsteen.
"I understand this urban demand for this convenience. I get that. What I don't understand is [installing them] next to a vulnerable population, such as children who are not done growing," said parent Andrea Guajardo.
Denver7 checked with Jefferson County Schools, and a spokeswoman says it does not allow cell tower construction on its property because of parental concerns.
At least one mother is frustrated about the process.
"We've been really trying hard to get information, and it's concerning how hard that has been,” said Springsteen.
The Archdiocese of Denver released the following statement Tuesday:
St. Jude’s Parish has diligently complied with all regulation related to the construction of this cellular phone tower. The project was approved by the City of Lakewood and the tower is owned by Verizon.
The Archdiocese of Denver and St. Jude’s Parish are aware of the concerns being brought forward by the parents of the school children at Kendrick Lakes Elementary School. Saint Jude’s is reaching out to parents to meet with them and address their concerns.
Editor's note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the Lakewood City Council approved construction of the tower. The tower did not need council approval; building permits are issued by city staff.