Gannett Broadcasting has jumped on the hyper-local Web site bandwagon, announcing Tuesday (June 15) it would launch community focused Web sites in 10 of its 19 TV markets.
The sites will be powered by DataSphere Technologies, which provides turnkey technology, advertising and sales solutions for the sites.
Markets on tap for Gannett's neighborhood Web sites include Atlanta; Washington, D.C.; Tampa, Fla; Sacramento; Grand Rapids, Mich; Jacksonville, Fla.; Buffalo, N.Y.; Little Rock Ark; Portland, Maine; and Macon, Ga. The Web sites will be integrated within the existing Gannett Broadcasting Web sites.
"Providing neighborhood news and information is a vital part of our responsibility as local media companies," said Dave Lougee, president of Gannett Broadcasting.
Neighborhood Web sites have taken off since last fall when Fisher Communications launched more than 100 neighborhood Web sites with DataSphere, in which Fisher has an investment. Other groups that have partnered with DataSphere include Raycom Media, Local TV, and Hubbard Broadcasting.