The HD Digital Radio Alliance celebrates a milestone today, as 15 new markets begin broadcasting in HD. This completes the rollout of HD Digital Radio to all of the top 100 markets in under 18 months. The new markets are: Gainsville, FL; Charleston, SC; Greenville, SC; Columbia, SC; Daytona Beach, FL; Des Moines, IA; Spokane, WA; Mobile, AL; Wichita, KS; Madison, WI; Colorado Springs, CO; Melbourne, FL; Tri Cities, TN; Lakeland-Winter Haven, FL and Lexington, KY.

“The HD Radio Alliance came together sixteen months ago and has made significant strides in that time culminating with the achievement of the top 100 markets rollout,” said Peter Ferrara, President/CEO of the HD Digital Radio Alliance. "None of this would have been possible without the consistent support of America’s radio broadcasters, whose vision and leadership have brought us to this meaningful milestone. Also crucial to the effort have been our partners; including retailers, and device and auto manufacturers. This notable achievement resulted from a collaborative industry effort, giving the consumer the opportunity to discover HD Radio virtually anywhere in the country."

“The HD Radio and HD2 multicast formats selections that the Alliance has helped to allocate will broaden the horizons of radio, enabling us to provide unique programming and compelling content, such as Deep Trax, Live Rock, Irish music and other new, exciting formats,” said Peter Smyth, Greater Media President/CEO. “The additional channels will also give young artists the opportunity and ability to be heard on the airwaves."

Dan Mason, President/CEO of CBS Radio, said, “We live in a digital world today. The majority of the U.S. population tunes in to radio every day and we are now able to offer them superior sound quality with additional choices. This is a significant step for the future of radio and offers a whole new way in serving the local listener. The options with FM spectrum are virtually limitless.”

“HD Radio is a vision that the industry got behind to benefit the consumer,” said Mark Mays, CEO of Clear Channel Communications. “The top 100 markets announcement is a significant milestone and a statement that HD Radio is here and growing every single day. With each day, new formats are added and the consumer will keep reaping the benefits."