Hearst-Argyle, Tribune Reach BAS Agreement With Sprint Nextel

Hearst-Argyle Television Inc. and Tribune Broadcasting have reached an accord with Sprint Nextel for each of the broadcasters' group-owned stations in the BAS 2 GHz spectrum relocation project.

All stations with BAS licenses, including those owned by Hearst-Argyle and Tribune, must relocate to new spectrum by September 2007. Sprint Nextel is responsible for covering the costs associated with relocating services.

"We continue completing agreements across the country with BAS licensees and our agreements with Tribune and Hearst-Argyle are a testament to the hard work of all involved," said Michael Degitz, vice president of spectrum management for Sprint Nextel said. "Both Tribune and Hearst-Argyle have demonstrated leadership in the broadcast industry by reaching agreement with Sprint Nextel. We look forward to announcing other agreements soon, following the engagement and cooperation of additional licensees."

Upon completion of the transition by current licensees, the FCC has licensed Sprint Nextel to use a portion of the 2 GHz spectrum vacated for commercial radio services.