After six months of digital reconstruction, the community channel has been transformed into a high-tech, digital broadcast station.
More than 12,000 metres of wire was laid during the project, said George Bryson, host of the First Local newscast, who served as master of ceremonies at a reception held at the Sperling Drive headquarters in Barrie for Rogers Simcoe-Grey last Thursday evening.
“It’s been an amazing transformation,” Bryson said.
“A very exciting time for us, and the communities we serve. This is a re-investment in our communities and allows us to improve all of our shows and add technology to our local bureaus in Orillia, Midland and Collingwood. Local mayors can now be part of Politically Speaking by going to their local bureaus.”
Approximately $1 million was spent on the building project said Colette Watson, vice president of Rogers Television.
“It’s about creating programming and providing a great working environment for our employees,” she said.
For regional president Earl Dusek, the unveiling of the “cutting edge studio improves our communications options. In addition to the coverage of dozens of local events, the studio is our commitment to our 100,000 customers.”
Dusek said Rogers would be spending in the range of another $22 million in upgrades in Simcoe-Grey in the next two years.
Station manager Cindy MacDonald said the last six months symbolized “a real team effort by both staff and management. If anything, it brought us all closer. It was all worth it. Over the past two years, we’ve raised the editorial bar and making sure the channel is reflective of the communities we serve.
"We’ve increased the quality and number of original programming. There’s been more than a 50 per cent increase in the last few years. Our cameras are there. This takes us to the digital realm. Our viewers will see a better product. That’s what local television is all about.”
The station held open houses last Friday and Saturday to welcome viewers to the Sperling Drive office and studio.
Rogers Television cable channel 10 serves the communities of Barrie, Innisfil, Orillia, Angus, Alliston and New Tecumseth. Channel 53 serves Collingwood, Midland, Penetanguishene, Elmvale, Creemore, Stayner and Wasaga Beach.
