Fresno State broadcast radio station KFSR (90.7FM)  replaced the station’s aging broadcast tower, antenna and transmitter with new, state-of-the-art equipment. In addition to infrastructure updates, the station increased its broadcast power from 2600 to 4500 watts, significantly boosting its signal saturation within its licensed broadcast service area. 

With the improvements, listeners in the station’s broadcast area will experience improved reception.

The project required collaboration between the station licensee, Fresno State and the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). KFSR management also worked closely with Hatfield & Dawson Consulting Engineers in Seattle, station broadcast engineer Thomas Whitlock, Beckman Tower, broadcast equipment vendors and Fresno State Facilities Management and Plant Operations.

Planning for the project began over 10 years ago when station management consulted with broadcast engineers about the existing infrastructure. With the goal of retrofitting and replacing key broadcast components, a development fund was established to support the project. Thanks to the generosity of station donors, funding for the project was secured over the following years. 

Construction began in the fall of 2024, and the station officially transitioned to the new antenna and transmitter on Jan. 1. The broadcast power was gradually increased to full capacity over several weeks.

“This is a major milestone for KFSR Radio, a success story for Fresno State and a testament to the generosity of KFSR listeners and donors,” said Julie Logan Lindahl, Fresno State Radio general manager and project coordinator. 

Fresno State Radio, including KFSR, is a self-funding program on campus. Support for the station is provided by listener donations; sponsor donations; grants from local, regional and national funding agencies; and promotional fundraising events.

KFSR began broadcasting in 1982 with 250 watts and increased its power in 1987 to 2600 watts. The latest upgrades enable students to work with a stronger platform and improved technology. 

The station provides students with hands-on opportunities to gain skills in radio programming, music management, audio production, marketing/public relations, development, event management, web content/development, industry relations and more. KFSR trains a significant number of students who then graduate ready to apply competitively to industry jobs across the country.  

The station broadcasts at 90.7 FM and streams online at kfsr.org, serving the Fresno/Clovis metro area. It operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Programming is hosted by volunteers, including Fresno State students, faculty and staff, alumni and community members.

(Image: Carl Beckman, Jr. from Beckman Tower installs the new antenna at the top of the radio tower over the Speech Arts building.)