1970s| 1980s| 1990s| 2000s
The first cable operator in Ann Arbor was franchised in 1973. A 26-channel cable system was constructed, providing local origination, leased access, public access, and educational access programming. Public access was managed by the cable operator, which utilized 1/2 inch reel-to-reel portapaks for production.
In 1974, the City established a Cable Commission to provide regulatory oversight of the cable franchise. The City continued to support the access movement with funding and equipment contributions from franchise fees. In 1978, the City offered the access operation a new home in its Fire Department Building in downtown Ann Arbor. Prior to that date it had been located in a house near the Ann Arbor Public Library and a downtown storefront. The organization became known as Ann Arbor Community Access Television.
In 1979, the cable system was sold, and access became a point of contentious negotiation. The City eventually assumed control of the access operation, receiving $20,400 per year in access capital support from the new operator. Additional funding was provided from franchise fees.
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