ABC News’ decision to relocate to Hudson Square in downtown Manhattan has sparked concerns among staff members. Some employees have labeled the area as “no man’s land,” expressing confusion and discomfort about the move. There seems to be a lack of communication and transparency regarding the relocation process, leaving many in the dark.
Despite the company’s assurance that the flagship show, “Good Morning America,” will also shift to the new location, there are lingering doubts. Insiders believe that “GMA” may continue to shoot in Times Square indefinitely, as the network reportedly extended its lease at Times Square Studios. The competition from “CBS Mornings” is also a factor contributing to the hesitation in fully committing to the move.
Another major issue raised by employees is the concern over insufficient office space at the new facility. With the removal of an entire floor from the news division, there are fears that there won’t be enough room for all employees. The lack of offices in the new space presents a significant obstacle for the network to address.
The decision to move to Hudson Square without thorough discussions with all stakeholders has raised questions about the preparedness for breaking news situations. The potential traffic issues, especially in the Holland Tunnel, could pose challenges for timely reporting. Employees are questioning whether the location was carefully evaluated before finalizing the relocation plans.
While some shows like “The View,” “Tamron Hall,” and “Live with Kelly and Mark” are expected to transition over the summer, others such as “GMA,” “World News Tonight,” and New York’s local news, ABC 7, are slated to move in spring 2025. The news shows are anticipated to shoot in studios located in the building’s basement, potentially facing disruptions from the nearby subway.
Employees are eagerly awaiting more clarity on the move, especially with the appointment of a new leader for the news division. Veteran Disney executive Debra O’Connell taking over from news president Kim Godwin brings hope for better communication and organization. Many staff members are looking forward to leaving the current headquarters on West 66th Street, which has been described as unsanitary and plagued with issues like mice infestations and malfunctioning facilities.
ABC News’ relocation to Hudson Square has raised legitimate concerns among employees regarding communication, office space, location considerations, and the overall transition process. The network needs to address these issues promptly to ensure a smooth and successful move to the new facility. Employee morale and operational efficiency could be at stake if the challenges are not adequately acknowledged and resolved.
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