Fraser Valley Community Media, which operates KFFR 88.3 FM, announced the expansion of its FM radio signal with the goal of reaching all of Grand County by the end of 2027.

The local media organization secured a second frequency, 89.1 FM, that will operate under the call sign KWTR that reflects “its identity as a community station at the headwaters of the Colorado River.” This expansion took years of planning and is possible through collaboration with local organizations and leaders. Members and listeners of KFFR also helped get this project off the ground by funding a feasibility study, which identified Granby Ranch as an optimal location for KFFR’s new broadcasting location.

Fraser Valley Community Media Executive Director Ryan Wilson explained in a news release that a partnership with Granby Ranch and support from its owners, Bob and David Glarner, were instrumental in achieving a key milestone — providing a new location for the new antenna and transmitter. The Quick Draw lift will soon be home to KFFR’s new antenna and transmitter, which will give the radio station capability to reach more Grand County residents.

Granby Ranch provided logistical and financial support, and split the installation costs for the new equipment with KFFR. The new equipment is expected to be installed there by April 2025.

“We are thrilled to partner with KFFR to help bring community radio to Granby Ranch and beyond,” stated Roxanne Hoover, mountain manager at Granby Ranch. “This project aligns with our commitment to fostering community connection, and we look forward to hearing KFFR on the air in even more of Grand County.”

Grants and donations also helped pave the way for this local media project. The local media organization was awarded $5,000 in September 2024 by the ROSH Fund, and the Teazey Foundation awarded a $7,500 grant for the project. KFFR’s membership drive in June 2024 raised $28,000. In addition, Freeport McMoRan gave $6,250 toward the project, “citing remarkable grassroots efforts behind the initiative.”

The new second frequency KWTR will be installed at Winter Park Resort at the Bullfrog Communication Center. Wilson said that the broadcasting equipment could be installed at the resort as early as Monday, Nov. 25, which means 89.1 FM station will be operational soon.

“We’re excited to support KWTR as part of our commitment to community,” Winter Park Resort CEO Sky Foulkes stated in a news release. “KFFR plays a vital role in connecting the people of Grand County, and we are proud to be part of that mission.”

KWTR will broadcast the same programming as KFFR. Wilson explained that the organization will look at the programming for KWTR after KFFR moves its broadcasting equipment to Granby Ranch. He believes there is potential for running hyperlocal information through 89.1 FM such as municipal meetings and podcasts.

“While, there are still a few obstacles to overcome, FVCM (Fraser Valley Community Media) is committed to making this expansion project a reality in 2025, with a goal to reach the entire county by 2027,” the news release from KFFR stated. “FVCM is proud that it is building its infrastructure to provide a platform for community voices, local businesses, and organizations to connect with residents across Grand County.”

KFFR will be holding its eighth annual ’80s dance party at Devil’s Craft on Saturday, Nov. 23, with proceeds supporting the cost of the new tower sites. Tickets are $15 in advance or $20 at the door and it starts at 7 p.m. Anyone who arrives before 8 p.m. gets a free cocktail. Tickets are available at KFFR’s website.

For more information about the project or how you can support it visit, KFFR.org.

Tara Alatorre is the editor of Sky-Hi News. You can reach her at 970-557-6031 or talatorre@skyhinews.com.