A government access channel is one of three kinds of "Community Access Channels" first designated under the "Cable Communications Policy Act of 1984." It provides residents with local television programs and information over dedicated public, educational, and government (PEG) cable channels.

PEG channels were created by Congress to ensure that large media companies could not control all the programming seen on cable television. It also provides the local community an opportunity to have a voice on the cable system. Authorized by the FCC, by local ordinances and franchise agreements, government access channels are vehicles used by cities to communicate information to their citizens.

The principal reason to have a government channel is to provide local information from an unfiltered and local perspective. Today, government communications channels provide a convenient and cost-efficient way for local government to reach citizens and inform them about day-to-day workings of local government.

Government access channels differ from public access channels in some important ways. Unlike public access channels, government channels are granted editorial rights to choose the manner, format, and type of information to be disseminated to the public.

Government channels selectively offer City-based information to the community. The basic idea is to attract viewers to learn more about their local government and to encourage greater citizen participation.

* Use of the government access channel by non-City departments or non-City agencies is prohibited.

* Eligible users include City of Pittsburgh elected officials and City of Pittsburgh departments and agencies. These eligible users may submit video service requests for public meetings, public service announcements, or requests for alphanumeric text messages.

You may obtain a copy of any City-produced program that airs on City Channel Pittsburgh for your own use.

The easiest and least expensive way is to set your own DVR to record the program as it airs on City Channel Pittsburgh (Comcast Channel 13/Verizon Channel 44).

If you are looking for a DVD copy of a City Channel Pittsburgh or a program that is no longer in the schedule, you may request copy by calling the Department of Innovation & Performance at 412-255-2152.

There is a $20.00 charge for each DVD requested. All DVDs must be paid for in advance. DVDs will be held at the main I&P office for pick-up.

You may pick up your DVDs Monday-Friday between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

If you wish to have the DVD mailed to you, there will be a $4.00 fee to cover postage and handling.