Nebraska Public Media is preparing to launch a new Omaha-focused public radio station on June 15, expanding its statewide service with a dedicated FM signal designed specifically for listeners in Nebraska’s largest city.
Nebraska Public Media Omaha will broadcast on KOOO (101.9) and feature a mix of NPR programming, local journalism and music programming tailored to Omaha audiences. The station is currently airing preview programming while final technical preparations continue ahead of launch. The group purchased the station from NRG Media in February.
General Manager and CEO Stacey Decker said the new signal has been a longtime goal for the organization as it seeks to strengthen connections between Omaha and the rest of the state through public media.
“Adding a dedicated radio signal in Omaha is something we have been working toward for a long time, and I am proud that the moment is finally here,” Decker said. “Omaha is Nebraska’s largest city and a major part of the state’s story.”
The weekday lineup will feature NPR staples including “Morning Edition,” “All Things Considered,” “Fresh Air,” “Here & Now” and “On Point,” along with local news, weather and reporting from Omaha and across Nebraska.
Veteran broadcaster Dale Johnson, a member of the Nebraska Broadcasters Association Hall of Fame, will host local segments during “Morning Edition,” while Omaha native Grant Winterer will provide local hosting during afternoon drive on “All Things Considered.”
Nebraska Public Media Chief Content Officer Nancy Finken said the goal is to create a station with a strong local identity while maintaining statewide relevance.
“Listeners will hear trusted NPR news and conversation programming alongside local news, weather and reporting tied to the city’s neighborhoods, businesses and community life,” Finken said.
The station’s evening programming will shift toward an adult album alternative (AAA) format beginning at 7pm, featuring rock, blues, folk, world music and alternative country. Weekend programming will also include music-focused local shows such as “Flow Lab,” hosted by Phoenixx Carroll, and “The Verge,” hosted by Music Director Genevieve Randall.
Local reporting will come from Omaha-based journalists Jessica Wade and Molly Ashford, in addition to statewide coverage from Nebraska Public Media’s broader newsroom, including legislative reporting from Fred Knapp and Noelle Annonen.
Nebraska Public Media said the launch continues its mission under the Nebraska Educational Telecommunications Act to operate statewide educational and public media services while expanding opportunities for local storytelling, journalism and cultural programming within Omaha.
The full programming schedule officially launches Monday, June 15.
