CHICAGO (thefutoncritic.com) -- While the Emmys may have shut out "The Wire," HBO has recognized the series in its own way: renewing it for another season.

The news comes as the series draws to its second season conclusion on August 24. Executive producers David Simon and Robert F. Colesberry are already working on storylines for the show's third go around, which is expected to kick off next summer.

While specifics about the new season are still under wraps, the pair did confirm novelist and screenwriter Richard Price ("Samaritan," "Clockers") is on board to write some episodes next season. Price follows in the shoes of best-selling crime writer George Pelecanos who wrote for the series this season.

"The Wire" has hit its highest ratings to date this season, averaging roughly 4 million viewers each week.