Staff at The Dallas Morning News learned Wednesday morning that the newspaper is considering moving from its longtime headquarters at 508 Young Street. The building, which is nicknamed the “Rock of Truth” after a line in an engraving out front, has been home to the Morning News since 1949.
Publisher and CEO Jim Moroney notes in a statement that the Morning News will remain in downtown Dallas but that the move is necessary to “continue our transformation to a digitally focused company.”
Here’s the full memo:
As we continue our transformation to a digitally focused company, we need a newsroom space that fosters collaboration and communication. With that in mind, we are exploring the possibility of moving to new space in downtown Dallas.
A move is by no means certain. We are evaluating our current building and other possible locations to determine which one will best further our transformation and meet our design — and your work — needs. CBRE will be assisting us in this process.
We are excited about the opportunity to create a fully equipped digital newsroom, wherever it may be. This 21st-century space will be the physical embodiment of our new identity as a company. Mike Wilson and Katy Murray will take the lead on the newsroom vision, working with the team of designers, once selected, that will bring all of us together in a uniquely reimagined space.
I can assure you that if we do decide to move from our Rock of Truth, we will remain in downtown Dallas, and will continue to evolve our direction and services while serving the community as the most trusted source of information in North Texas.
Lastly, as our most valued advisers, we want your thoughts on newsroom design. If you are interested in being part of this process or have ideas to share, please send them to transformation@dallasnews.com
We are excited to share information as we know more.
Jim Moroney
For years, newsrooms around the country have sold their original headquarters and relocated. The last decade has seen an increasing number of newspaper companies liquidating their real estate to bolster their bottom lines as revenue from print advertising declines.
Cheryl Hall reported for the Morning News that company’s board cleared the way for the exploration last week.
“It’s exciting to think about working in a space where people can collaborate easily and ideas can flourish,” Dallas Morning News Editor Mike Wilson told Poynter in an email. “We want to set a high standard for digital journalism and our working space should reflect that.”
