Cost-Effective MPT Microwave Network to Bolster State’s Emergency Preparedness

Cost-Effective MPT Microwave Network to Bolster State’s Emergency Preparedness (March 2006)

Expanded Digital Capabilities Mean More Service to Citizens, Viewers

MPT, Maryland Public Television Maryland Public Television (MPT) will become the first broadcaster in the United States to transmit multiple programming and datacasting streams through its own digital microwave network, thanks to a groundbreaking decision by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

Based on the ruling, MPT will provide Maryland communities from Salisbury to Oakland – and everywhere in between – with information from the Maryland Institute for Medical Emergency Services Systems and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, the agencies responsible for emergency 911 calls. The cost-sharing partnership among these state agencies means that Maryland’s own digital network will total a one-time, $2 million to construct. The annual leased cost of such a service from a third party provider could total upwards of $600,000 annually. MPT’s new microwave network is saving the State millions in the long-term.

"MPT appreciates the FCC’s recognition of the valuable services we will provide the people of Maryland through our digital microwave network," said MPT President and CEO Robert J. Shuman. "With the help of our State partners, MPT looks forward to pioneering new, cost-effective ways to serve local Maryland communities including critical emergency management needs."

"Public safety, emergency preparedness, and homeland security are hallmarks of the Ehrlich administration," said Governor's Office of Homeland Security Director Dennis Schrader. "This partnership with MPT, Maryland's only statewide local broadcast outlet, will ensure that all Marylanders have access to the very latest information to keep themselves, their families, and their property safe in the event of an emergency."

According to George Beneman, MPT’s vice president for Technology, "This waiver enables MPT to combine its broadcast signals with data from various state agencies into a single microwave system, hastening the expansion of coverage for critical state services."

In addition, the system will enable MPT’s mobile electronic news gathering truck to broadcast live via any of MPT’s six transmitter sites. The approved microwave link between the State House in Annapolis and the WMPT transmitter site in Crownsville will provide an important communications link from the State Capitol to other state agencies.

With engineering support provided by the firm of Lieberman & Walisko, MPT is installing this high-speed 145 megabit bi-directional services microwave system that will link the transmitters with its Owings Mills master control center. Installation is expected to be completed by the end of the year.

MPT is a leader in the production of broadcast programming for public television. MPT's local/regional television credits include public affairs, original performance, documentary, and entertainment programs for the citizens of Maryland. Beyond broadcast, MPT creates instructional videos, develops training, and builds Internet sites that serve tens of thousands of students, teachers, and child-care providers annually. MPT outreach activities, especially relating to arts, culture, and history, take place in all areas of the state to further fulfill MPT's mission to engage, enlighten, and entertain. For more information on MPT visit www.mpt.org. For other press releases, visit the MPT pressroom at http://www.mpt.org/pressroom.