After occupying a building on Park Avenue Campus for 29 years, public television station WKNO is relocating to a new facility to comply with FCC requirements for all analog TV stations to change to digital television by Feb. 17, 2009.
WKNO, which has been broadcasting on channel 10 from Building 29 on the Park Avenue Campus since 1979, has served the Mid-South community for more than 50 years.
WKNO Promotions Manager Teri Sullivan said even though WKNO's relationship with The University is in good standing, she is excited about the move.
"We're very excited, like anyone getting a new house," Sullivan said.
Sullivan said moving to a different location will not change the station itself, but will allow its supporters to enjoy a cleaner, clearer WKNO.
"We won't be any different than the dial," Sullivan said. "Digital television allows more shows, more quality and picture."
Sullivan said some people do not have a clear understanding of DTV and all of the changes it will bring, which is why the station is airing programs to better educate its viewers.
Sullivan said though the announcement has been made of the future move, she is not ready to say farewell to The University just yet. The new location at 7151 Cherry Rd. will not be complete for at least a year and a half, she said.
Patrick Collins of Harrah's Entertainment said land was donated to assist the station with a successful move. The new building is expected to be 39,000 square feet. It will house WKNO offices and operations for production and broadcast of both TV and radio stations.
Tony Poteet, assistant vice president of campus planning and design, said The University has enjoyed the station's stay on campus. Curt Guenther, director of marketing and communications, said The University has not made any plans for building 29 after WKNO's move.
