AZPM Expands NPR Service to Safford With Launch of KUAE-FM 91.7

To: Campus Community
From: Arizona Public Media
Subject: AZPM Expands NPR Service to Safford With Launch of KUAE-FM 91.7
Date: Dec 18, 2025

Arizona Public Media (AZPM) is pleased to announce the expansion of its NPR service in southeastern Arizona with the launch of KUAE-FM, 91.7, a new full-power public radio station now serving Safford and the surrounding communities. The station is now on the air, providing residents with direct access to AZPM’s trusted NPR/KUAZ news and information.

KUAE-FM broadcasts from Heliograph Peak at an elevation of approximately 10,000 feet. Operating with a 250-watt FM signal, the new station significantly enhances the reach and reliability of public radio service throughout the region. This strategic placement ensures that listeners across Safford, Thatcher, Pima, and neighboring areas can depend on clear and consistent access to NPR’s national and international reporting, along with AZPM’s award-winning local journalism.

The addition of KUAE-FM reflects AZPM’s ongoing commitment to providing essential, high-quality news and informational programming to communities across southern and southeastern Arizona.

Listeners in the area will benefit from expanded access to the in-depth reporting, thoughtful conversations, and unique storytelling that distinguish AZPM from other radio stations.

The new signal also strengthens the region’s access to public-service announcements and critical emergency information through the Emergency Alert System, underscoring the vital role of public media in rural communities.

"KUAE-FM strengthens the reliability of public radio service in these communities and ensures that residents have consistent access to trusted information from NPR and AZPM," said Jack Gibson, AZPM CEO. "We look forward to meeting the informational needs of these communities and delivering the high-quality programming that listeners expect."

AZPM’s Classical music service in Safford remains unchanged. The existing 89.1 FM translator continues to broadcast AZPM Classical and is not affected by the launch of KUAE-FM.

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