KTVA Anchorage Goes HD, Unveils New Set

Alaska telecom and station owner GCI has launched “the new KTVA,” broadcasting its local programming in high definition. The centerpiece of this state-of-the-art digital facility in Anchorage (DMA 146) is a news set and content gathering environment designed and installed by Devlin Design Group.

“We have made a substantial investment bringing high definition programming to Anchorage,” says Gary Donovan, the CBS affiliate’s COO-GM. “But it means nothing if the content and images are anything less than exceptional. The dazzling set designed by DDG jumps out of the screen and sits on the couch next to you.”

When GCI decided to reinvent KTVA, it called Dan Devlin, creative director of Devlin Design Group. KTVA’s Bert Rudman, executive news director, explains: “The Devlin Design Group designed an unbelievable set and an equally beautiful and versatile newsroom for KTVA. I used their designs to help recruit nearly 20 people from the Lower 48 to supplement our already terrific staff in Anchorage. Candidates found that a world-class environment, a state-of-the-art studio and a cutting-edge newsroom were compelling reasons to want to relocate.”

DDG provided guidance in all aspects of the concept, design and construction of this new media center. DDG became the overall concept integrator, providing insight and advice in all key areas such as selecting equipment integrator, graphics and music suppliers.

In addition to the HD set, KTVA now has a versatile, on-air news environment that includes a working weather center as well as a separate morning news talk show area. The design of the set accommodates a variety of shots. It also has the ability to display countless visual backgrounds. This is made possible by an LED cube wall system which can display unlimited images and colors that will define the mood and setting of each program.

DDG also designed and built a complete, digital newsroom that includes a working weather center, in addition to the one on the news set. The design of the second floor newsroom is consistent with the style and color scheme of the set and includes 180 degree views of the surrounding Alaskan landscape.