Detroit Public TV rebrands as Detroit PBS, announces return to Detroit location

In a move signaling a “renewed commitment to the heart of its community,” Detroit Public TV announced its relocation back to the city of Detroit and a rebranding as Detroit PBS. This significant shift underscores the organization's dedication to serving Southeast Michigan with unparalleled quality, trust, and fairness in media.

"Our return to Detroit and our transformation into Detroit PBS mark a momentous occasion in our organization's history," says Ryan Laurie, VP of Development Operations. "This move reaffirms our longstanding commitment to engaging with our community and upholding the standards of excellence that have defined PBS for decades."

Since its inception in 1955, Detroit Public TV has been a major media presence in Southeast Michigan, delivering educational and informative content to audiences across the region. Now, with its headquarters set to relocate to the Milwaukee Junction neighborhood, the organization is poised to expand its impact even further.

The new Detroit PBS campus, located at 234 Piquette Avenue, will serve as a multifaceted hub for media production, community events, and arts performances. The facility will house the organizational headquarters, video production and broadcasting facilities, as well as the renowned 90.9 WRCJ radio station.

Images of new campus courtesy of Detroit PBS

Construction on the new campus is slated to begin later in 2024r, with an anticipated opening in Fall 2026. This milestone announcement comes nearly two decades after the organization's previous headquarters move to Wixom, driven by the imperative to transition to digital television broadcasting.

In conjunction with the relocation, Detroit PBS will also undergo a transformation of its flagship broadcast channel, WTVS-TV, and other operations. This rebranding initiative, informed by extensive audience research, reflects the organization's dedication to community engagement and viewer trust.

"Our audience's trust in PBS has remained steadfast over the years," says Laurie. "As Detroit PBS, we are proud to carry forward the legacy of trust and excellence that PBS has cultivated for generations."

As part of its rebranding efforts, Detroit PBS is introducing the tagline "Imagine the Possibilities," highlighting the transformative power of its programming and community outreach initiatives. This message serves as an invitation for viewers to envision the potential impact of Detroit PBS's content on their lives and communities.