Montclair State University has been chosen as the new programming and management operator of New Jersey’s four FCC-licensed public television stations, according to a June 3 announcement by New Jersey State Treasurer Aaron Binder and the university. Montclair was selected from four bidders through a competitive process, returning control of New Jersey public television to an in-state operator after WNET managed NJ PBS since 2011.
The contract between the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority and Montclair State University will be submitted to the Legislature for review, with lawmakers having 15 days to consider it. The agreement spans five years with options for two additional five-year extensions. Under the terms, Montclair is required to provide at least six hours per week of New Jersey-centric programming, including a nightly newscast, public affairs content, live broadcasts of key state addresses and election coverage.
Governor Mikie Sherrill said, “Public broadcasting is a vital public service that ensures New Jersey families have access to trusted news, educational programming, and information about their communities. At a time when local journalism faces growing challenges, today’s action keeps this essential service alive in New Jersey.” Sherrill also said she is excited about Montclair leading the next chapter for public broadcasting due to its expertise in journalism and community partnerships.
State Treasurer Aaron Binder said that supporting public broadcasting has become more important following federal funding cuts, “Given the ever-evolving nature of modern media, and recent devastating funding cuts at the federal level, protecting and supporting public broadcasting has never been more important.” Rick Williams, Executive Director of the New Jersey Public Broadcasting Authority, said that Montclair brings “broadcast-ready infrastructure” and deep community ties as well as commitment to journalism in the state.
Montclair plans extensive collaboration with colleges across New Jersey along with news organizations and cultural institutions. The university’s College of Communication and Media will house NJ PBS operations; it features professional broadcast studios and production facilities. The Center for Cooperative Media within Montclair will support statewide collaborative reporting efforts among hundreds of local news organizations.
More than 20 full-time employees—including three reporters—will staff NJ PBS initially; students will participate through internships. Employment opportunities are expected to be posted on Montclair’s website. In addition to broadcast content such as daily newscasts and sports coverage via partnership with the New Jersey Athletic Conference, NJ PBS under Montclair will focus on digital media outreach and in-person engagement events across communities.
