Underground Neighborhood Radio Stations Are Popping Up Across Seattle
A new wave of low-power FM stations foster community connection.
By Megan Lamb December 7, 2017
This article originally appeared in the December 2017 issue of Seattle magazine.
In 2010, Congress passed the Local Community Radio Act to allow low- power FM stations in urban areas, something formerly only permitted in rural areas, for community groups and nonprofits to share noncommercial information and local news. In recent years, a number of stations in Seattle—each with an approximately 3.5-mile, hyperlocal broadcast radius—have been approved, and some are just powering up. Here are a few to check out on the dial.
KODX-FM 96.9
Earth On-the-Air Independent Media, University District: News, interviews, radio documentaries and live forums for radical and progressive perspectives on racial, economic and environmental justice.
KMGP-FM 101.1
Sand Point Arts and Cultural Exchange (SPACE) Radio, Magnuson Park: Neighborhood, park and event information, including youth programming and interviews with park officials.
KHUH-FM 104.9
Hollow Earth Radio, Central District: Experimental local music of all genres and weekly radio shows, such as Central Sounds, about interesting music and conversation connected to Seattle’s Central District.
KVRU-FM 105.7
Rainier Valley Radio, Rainier Valley: In one of the most culturally diverse areas of Seattle, this station aims to educate and entertain listeners through multilingual and multicultural talk programs.
KBFG-FM 107.3
Fulcrum Community Communications, Ballard, Fremont and Greenwood: Features shows about North Seattle’s cultural history, as well as an eclectic combination of local, live, youth and traditional music.
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