World Radio Network Station in Arizona Extends Reach to 70,000
Some 70,000 people will be within hearing range of the station, at least double the present number of between 25,000 and 35,000.
After three years of waiting, an English-language FM station in the World Radio Network, has received a construction permit to boost its power, enabling the outlet to more than double its potential audience.
Station Manager Jerry Wagner said the Federal Communications Commission gave KWRB in Sierra Vista, Ariz., southeast of Tucson, a construction permit on Apr. 10 to increase its power to 990 watts, up from the present level of 58 watts.
"The process took a long time because of the red tape with the Mexican government," Wagner told HCJB World Radio – whose partner ministry KWRB is networked with. "The station is so close to the Mexican border that approval for the change had to come from both U.S. and Mexican communications authorities."
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KWRB – which is part of the 23-outlet World Radio Network, one of HCJB World Radio's partner ministries – is one of four outlets in the network that broadcast in English. The rest use Spanish.
According to HCJB, when the transmitter and antenna are upgraded by September, some 70,000 people will be within hearing range of the station, at least double the present number of between 25,000 and 35,000.
The signal will also come in better for those who can already hear it.
"We're surrounded by mountains on all four sides," Wagner explained. "Our signal will still be obstructed by the terrain, but we're looking to put a stronger signal into areas where we've had a modest signal, especially in the northern part of Cochise county. We're now looking to reach the entire county."
He added that the boost in power will coordinate well with the station's annual “sharathon” Sept. 28 - Oct. 1. According to HCJB, the theme of the event, "Celebrating God's Faithfulness," was already selected before news of the power increase came through.
"Oh, how He has proven Himself to be faithful," Wagner said. "We are so grateful and thrilled about what He has done. We look forward to our increased listenership – now people will be able to hear the station better in their homes, and not just in their automobiles."
