About 2 years ago, a new radio signal started broadcasting at 92.5 FM from a low power translator station in Richmond. It’s part of RADIO IQ, which features mostly news and talk from National Public Radio and BBC World Service, as well as an increasing amount of local content. Anchored by WVTF Public Radio in Roanoke and owned by the Virginia Tech Foundation, this listener-supported radio network has continued to spread to a total of 9 full power stations, 4 low power translators or repeaters, and other partner stations.

 

General Manager Glenn Gleixner says, “So far the reception from the community has been very strong and very positive.” He thinks it’s because the station is the only 24-hour news/talk/information public radio format in the Richmond area (on a regular analog FM signal).

 

As far as other radio stations go, Gleixner has a lot of respect for WCVE, WRIR, and other community-oriented radio stations in our area. He says they’re invited to take part in the Virginia Public Radio group and believes that the sharing of resources will continue to improve the overall coverage and service of public radio in the area.

 

As government support for public radio becomes more challenging, the reasoning behind RADIO IQ’s expansion is to reach more potential donors and corporate underwriters. But beyond the numbers, Gleixner is looking forward to getting more involved in the communities that RADIO IQ serves. He cites the media sponsorship of this past fall’s TEDxRVA festival as a prime example.

 

Gleixner concluded by saying, “We look forward to hearing from 92.5 FM listeners as we interact and become part of the Richmond community in the way that public radio does with respect and value.”

 

New and old listeners should check the RADIO IQ website for schedule changes many of which will take place 7/1.

 

NEXT WEEK: a look at some of the locally-originated shows.