Nebraska Public Media is launching its own dedicated station in Omaha to expand its statewide reach and better utilize two recently added reporters in the state’s largest city.
NPM recently purchased KOOO, located at 101.9 on the FM dial and plans a June 15 launch for new programming that features National Public Radio news and conversation programs, as well as an “eclectic mix” of rock, blues, folk and alternative country music at night.
Stacey Decker, general manager and CEO of Nebraska Public Media, said having a dedicated station in Omaha has been a longtime goal of the network. Efforts to partner with existing stations in the city haven’t worked out, he said, and then KOOO became available, which, according to FCC filings, was purchased for $1.2 million in accumulated donations.
“Omaha is Nebraska’s largest city and a major part of the state’s story,” Decker said in response to emailed questions. “This station strengthens the connection between Omaha and the rest of Nebraska by bringing statewide news and conversations to Omaha listeners while also helping Omaha’s stories reach more Nebraskans.”…