KGNU plans move; launches building fund

BOULDER – Local radio station KGNU will have more studio space and a room for live music once it moves into its new home also in Boulder at 4700 Walnut St. next year.

The non-commercial, non-profit’s space will grow from 2,200 square feet to nearly 6,000 square feet — almost three times the space it occupies its current residence. KGNU has rented space at 1900 Folsom St. for almost 11 years and receives more than 60 percent of its operating budget from listener-members.

The station broadcasts at 88.5 in Boulder, 99.9 in Fort Collins, 93.7 in Ward and over the Internet at www.kgnu.org.

The new $940,000 facility will enhance training opportunities for volunteers, add studio space and accommodate new digital equipment, according to a prepared statement. Moving and new equipment costs are estimated at $100,000, and renovation costs, which include wiring and acoustic insulation, are estimated at $150,000.

Funds for the building and move came from a bequest and an anonymous gift. The station already has made a $400,000 down payment, and KGNU’s board of director also has pledged $20,000 toward the move. The seller, Samagra Melville, contributed $30,000.

But the station still needs about $510,000 and has launched a capital campaign, called the Gnu Building Fund, to help pay the mortgage. The board of directors is hoping for 1,000 donations at $200 each and 200 donations at $1,000 each. The station is designing an art project to commemorate contributors.

For information, contact Marty Durlin, the station’s general manager, at (303) 449-4885.