Atlanta News First to end 31-year affiliation with CBS

FILE - This May 10, 2017, file photo, shows the CBS logo at their broadcast center in New York. CBS is changing its Atlanta network outlet from Channel 46 to Channel 69. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

Atlanta News First is planning to end its 31-year affiliation with CBS to become an independent television station, as CBS shifts its Atlanta network outlet from WANF Channel 46 to WUPA Channel 69.

WUPA will become CBS Atlanta starting Aug. 16 and will include the launch of a CBS News Atlanta streaming channel, according to a Monday press release by Paramount.

“Launching our first owned CBS station in Atlanta is a milestone moment for us,” said Jennifer Mitchell, president of CBS Stations and CBS News and Stations Digital. “This expansion allows us to bring the full strength of CBS’ award-winning news, sports and entertainment programming directly to one of the most vibrant and influential markets in the country. With WUPA and the launch of the CBS News Atlanta streaming channel, we’re not just delivering content — we’re investing in the community, local journalism and ensuring Atlanta viewers receive the same trusted, high-quality journalism that defines CBS in every market we serve.”