Mt. Rainier Natl. Park may get better cell service

SEATTLE (AP) – Spotty or no cellular service has been the norm at the nation’s fifth-oldest national park, south of Seattle, but that could change soon.

Mount Rainier National Park is considering proposals by two carriers to provide cellular service in the park, setting off a debate about whether people enjoying the park should have access to calls, and social media while in nature.

Verizon Wireless and T-Mobile have applied to install telecommunications equipment on the visitor center at Paradise, one of the most heavily used areas in the park. No towers would be built; antennas would be located below the roofline of the visitor’s center.

Some say cell service would improve safety and provide a convenience for visitors. Others say the proliferation of phones will distract from the natural beauty of the surroundings.