Landlines: A Thing of the Past in Mantoloking After Hurricane Sandy?

by Peter March 28, 2020

written by Peter March 28, 2020

Landlines: A Thing of the Past in Mantoloking?

Hurricane Sandy’s Devastating Impact on Landlines

Hurricane Sandy, which ravaged the New Jersey coastline nearly a decade ago, left a lasting impact on the town of Mantoloking. One of the most significant consequences of the storm was the destruction of landlines, which Verizon Communications never bothered to repair.

The Decline of Landlines: A National Trend

Mantoloking is not an isolated case. The traditional landline is on the decline nationwide, with nearly 40% of households relying solely on wireless phones. Even now, less than 10% of households have only a landline phone. This trend is driven by the increasing affordability and convenience of wireless technology.

Residents’ Concerns over Wireless Replacement

Residents of Mantoloking are concerned about the reliability of the wireless Voice Link replacement that Verizon proposes. They fear that it will fail in the event of a storm or power outage, leaving them without essential communication. Verizon has also admitted that emergency calls might not always go through even during normal conditions if the network is overtaxed.

The Battle Between Old and New

The residents of Mantoloking are fighting to keep their traditional copper landlines, while Verizon is pushing for a complete transition to wireless. Petitions are underway to get the landlines back, highlighting the ongoing debate between old and new communication technologies.

Fire Island’s Success with Fiber-Optic Service

Nearby Fire Island faced a similar transition, but with a different outcome. Residents there successfully convinced Verizon to connect their homes to a fiber-optic FiOS service via wires. This provides them with a reliable and high-speed internet connection, as well as traditional landline phone service.

The Future of Landlines

The future of landlines is uncertain. While wireless technology continues to improve and become more affordable, there is still a need for reliable landline service in many areas, especially during emergencies. The battle between old and new will likely continue for some time, as communities weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each option.

Additional Considerations

Infrastructure: The cost of repairing and maintaining landline infrastructure is a significant factor in Verizon’s decision to phase out landlines.
Disaster Preparedness: Landlines provide a reliable means of communication during emergencies when wireless networks may be overwhelmed or damaged.
Communication Technology: The rapid evolution of communication technology is constantly reshaping the landscape, with new technologies emerging to replace old ones.

Peter

Peter is a marketer with a background in business and a passion for writing. With a keen eye for detail and a talent for crafting compelling narratives, Peter has carved out a niche for himself as a versatile contributor to LifeScienceArt.com, where he enjoys sharing his insights and expertise across a wide array of topics. Peter's journey into the world of marketing began with his university education in business. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Business Administration. His academic pursuits were characterized by a deep understanding of market dynamics, consumer behavior, and strategic planning. This foundation laid the groundwork for his successful career in marketing, where he has applied his knowledge to help businesses grow and thrive in competitive landscapes. Throughout his career, Peter has worked with a diverse range of companies, from startups to large multinational conglomerates, helping them develop and execute effective marketing strategies. His experience spans various industries, including technology, healthcare, and consumer goods, reflecting his adaptability and broad skill set. Peter's ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has made him a valuable asset in any organization he works with. Despite his busy professional life, Peter has always made time for his true passion: writing. He finds joy in the written word and believes in its power to inform, inspire, and connect people. This passion has found a perfect outlet in LifeScienceArt.com, where he contributes to all sections of the site. Whether it's penning thought-provoking articles on the latest trends in life sciences, crafting engaging profiles of industry leaders, or writing insightful pieces on art and its intersection with science, Peter brings a unique voice and perspective to his work. One of the aspects Peter cherishes most about his role at LifeScienceArt.com is the opportunity to collaborate with a wonderful cohort of writers. He values the camaraderie and the shared commitment to excellence that characterize the team. Working alongside talented and passionate individuals inspires him to continually hone his craft and push the boundaries of his writing. Outside of his professional pursuits, Peter is an avid reader and a lifelong learner. He enjoys exploring new ideas, delving into diverse genres of literature, and staying abreast of developments in science and art. His curiosity and enthusiasm for learning are reflected in his writing, where he strives to bring fresh insights and a nuanced understanding to his readers. Peter's story is one of dedication, versatility, and a deep-seated love for both marketing and writing. His contributions to LifeScienceArt.com not only enrich the site's content but also underscore the importance of passion and collaboration in creating meaningful and impactful work.