September 3, 1997   
     

     STATEMENT BY FCC CHAIRMAN REED HUNDT ON DTV BUILD-OUT
     
     Today the Mass Media Bureau granted the first DTV construction permit to KHVO in
Hilo, Hawaii.  With this action, KHVO is the first off the starting line.  A swift build-out is
critical to the successful launch of DTV and I applaud KHVO for leading the way to make DTV
an everyday reality.
   
     The Mass Media Bureau promised to grant construction permit applications within days. 
Today, it stands by this promise by granting swiftly KHVO's application.  Furthermore, this
grant comes within five months of the Commission's adoption of two Report and Orders
outlining the framework for DTV.  This expeditious process will ensure that DTV build-out
occurs as seamlessly as possible.



                            --FCC --