Seattle-based radio station KUOW will buy Pacific Lutheran University’s KPLU, according to an announcement by the University of Washington station today.
From the online statement: “Pacific Lutheran University plans to sell its broadcasting licenses to the University of Washington. A formal agreement has not yet been finalized, however, it is expected that KUOW/Puget Sound Public Radio will operate 88.5 FM and its other frequencies and there will be two stations: one for National Public Radio and Northwest news (94.9 FM) and one dedicated to jazz music (88.5 FM).”
KUOW disclosed that the purchase price for KPLU and its assets is $8 million, $7 million in cash and $1 million of underwriting announcements over 10 years.
The deal is expected to close next year, subject to FCC approval.
KUOW states that it will continue the “high-quality and comprehensive” jazz programming KPLU listeners enjoy. The all-music station may get a new call signal as yet to be determined, pending FCC approval.
News and informational programming will continue on KUOW.
“We understand that with this big news come many questions. We aim to keep listeners well-informed during this complex transition,” KUOW writes.
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