from Radio World / 11.06.2012 02:55PM
Storm-Affected Broadcasters Recovering
Radio stations return to regular frequencies
MULTIPLE CITIES: Stations in the areas affected by
Hurricane Sandy continue to return to the air on their own frequencies, like
WFMU-FM in Jersey City, N.J. New York Public Radio WNYC-FM/AM was also affected. It continued operating on its FM frequency once its transmitter
site was flooded. Laura Walker, chief executive of New York Public Radio,
estimated WNYC’s costs for covering the storm at $300,000 to $500,000, and
perhaps $300,000 for repairing its AM transmitter, according to The New York Times. Some of those costs will be
defrayed. The Corporation for Public Broadcasting approved assistance grants of $250,000
each to WNET and WNYC to support their efforts to provide listener and viewers
in the New York and New Jersey metros with continued news and information about
relief and recovery efforts following Hurricane Sandy.
Public radio station WNYC has reporters stationed throughout New York and New
Jersey to provide updates on the recovery process and connect listeners to
emergency resources. The station has aired all recent press conferences by
elected officials and has featured interviews with key officials.
WNYC also created a number of maps that helped online audiences follow the path
of the storm and track storm surges and flooding throughout New York and New
Jersey. Currently a “transit tracker” is keeping people up to date on the
status of mass transportation systems, while a map of the five New York City
boroughs is providing a color-coded update on traffic jams, according to CPB.
On television, WNET and WNET-owned NJTV began broadcasting extensive Hurricane
Sandy coverage last Sunday and continued throughout the duration of the storm
with live updates, programming and press conferences with Gov. Chris Christie and
other state and local officials. In addition, NJTV provided streaming coverage
on their website.
Also, the Federal Communications Commission has issued four more Special
Temporary Authority licenses to help radio stations with their restoration
efforts and reach out their communities. ~ from Radio World