Optimum to Close News12+ Channel on December 27

Optimum Communications will shutter the regional channel late this year amid broader corporate restructuring.

Updated on Oct. 31, 2026 in Television

Optimum to Close News12+ Channel on December 27

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Optimum Communications is set to discontinue its News12+ channel effective December 27, 2026. The company notified the New York State Public Service Commission of the upcoming closure as it manages significant financial obligations.

Why it matters

The closure reflects broader shifts in viewing habits and a push for multiplatform distribution amid reports that Optimum faces $26 billion in debt. The decision marks the end of a long-running regional service as the company streamlines its operational considerations.

Optimum Communications reports a total debt load of $26 billion as it moves to consolidate its broadcasting operations. The company cited shifting viewer patterns as the primary factor behind the channel closure.

The players

Optimum Communications

This telecommunications and media company provides television, internet, and phone services to customers across the New York City metropolitan area.

New York State Public Service Commission

This state regulatory body is responsible for overseeing public utilities and ensuring that telecommunications providers comply with regional service mandates.

The details

Customers will be informed of the change via on-screen messaging, bill inserts, and electronic communications. Content previously carried on News12+ is expected to remain available through the primary News 12 Network and in2 TV.

The News 12 Long Island channel first launched in December 1986.
MSG Metro Traffic & Weather made its debut on August 5, 1998.
The channel was rebranded as News 12 Traffic & Weather in October 2005.
The network was relaunched as News12+ in August 2019.
The News12+ channel is scheduled to cease operations on December 27, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

The shutdown of News12+ follows a pattern set by the industry-wide transition toward multiplatform distribution and away from traditional linear cable offerings. As regional cable channels face declining viewership, media companies are increasingly prioritizing digital access over dedicated, localized broadcast feeds.

Viewers will no longer be able to watch the News12+ channel after the December 27 cutoff date. Subscribers can still access similar news content through the primary News 12 Network or the in2 TV platform.

The takeaway

Regional broadcasters are increasingly pivoting to digital-first distribution to adapt to current audience trends. Consumers who rely on specialized regional channels should check their service provider updates to find where content will be migrated.