Purdue University is getting rid of both of its radio stations, WBAA AM and FM. The stations provide news and music programming for the West Lafayette community.
The AM signal is Indiana’s longest continuous operating radio station, having first signed on the air in 1922.
The deal will send the stations to Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Media, which also operates WFYI public broadcasting in central Indiana, according to the university’s website.
“We are so pleased to work with Purdue University — a world-class research institution — on preserving its public service mission through WBAA,” said Greg Petrowich, president, and CEO of Metropolitan Indianapolis Public Media. “Through this agreement, we will strengthen and build on WBAA’s commitment to listeners and the communities served by WFYI and WBAA.”
Through the proposed agreement, WBAA will maintain its call letters, its strong heritage, and its physical presence in Greater Lafayette. Local news and reporting, NPR and global news, and classical music
The Purdue Board of Trustees will vote on the issue July 7. The deal also needs FCC approval. MIPM is expected to assume operations of WBAA on or around Oct. 1.
