BETHLEHEM - PBS39, the community-owned public television station serving eastern Pennsylvania and western New Jersey, said proceeds from the Federal Communications Commission's Broadcast Incentive Auction for broadcast spectrum will allow the station to expand its programming and community outreach. The successful bid resulted in total station revenue of $82 million.

The sale of a portion of the broadcast spectrum will have no impact on most PBS39 viewers, and the station is committed to ensuring a seamless transition.Those with cable television or satellite will see no change, while those who receive PBS39 over the air will need to complete a simple rescan on their television to receive the new channel assignment.PBS39 has worked hard to continue its mission under an annual operating budget that is 30 percent less than 10 years ago, in large part because of reduced state funding.Auction proceeds will be used to upgrade the station's on-air and digital capabilities, enhance local educational outreach initiatives, and increase the production of original content created specifically for the Greater Lehigh Valley."This is an exciting moment in the history of PBS39 as we celebrate our 50th year," said Tim Fallon, CEO of PBS39. "These funds will help ensure we continue to serve the Greater Lehigh Valley for decades to come."In January, PBS39 unveiled its new strategic plan, WLVT 3.0, to increase educational outreach efforts, community partnerships and local programming through multiple digital platforms.To demonstrate its commitment to the community, PBS39 will provide PBS Learning Media free of charge to all of the 32 school districts it serves in its Education Consortium. The program provides pre-kindergarten-12 educators with access to high-quality digital content and professional development opportunities designed to improve teacher effectiveness and student achievement.