WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Bart Stupak (D-Menominee) announced Central Michigan University (CMU) has received a $750,000 grant to assist in the transition to digital television.  The Public Television Digital Transition Grant was awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development program and will benefit 31 counties in Northern Michigan, including 12 counties in the First Congressional District.

“Public television is an important source of information for many people living in rural areas,” Stupak said.  “As the transition to digital television moves forward, this grant will provide Central Michigan University with the equipment necessary to continue providing high quality service and programs to audiences throughout Northern Michigan.”

The Public Television Digital Transition Grant will be used by CMU to purchase digital program production equipment, including cameras and editing, mixing and storage equipment.  The coverage area of this grant includes three digital stations serving central and northern Michigan.

The CMU coverage area – larger than 13 states – is one of the largest university coverage areas in the nation.  It also reaches many underserved rural populations with a variety of helpful broadcasts topics including health, education and public affairs.

The 12 counties that will benefit from the grant in the First Congressional District are:

Alcona County             Alpena County                   Antrim County

Charlevoix County       Cheboygan County             Crawford County

Emmet County             Gladwin County                  Montmorency County

Oscoda County           Otsego County                    Presque Isle County

Public Television Digital Transition Grants assist Public Television Stations serving substantial rural populations in transitioning to digital broadcast television transmission, as mandated by the Federal Communications Commission. Grant funds may be used to acquire and install facilities and software necessary for the transition. Grant funds may also be used for associated engineering and environmental studies.

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