Philly Radio: WXPN To Acquire WNTI-FM

Non-Com WXPN has announced it is purchasing yet another public station in Central Jersey  – WNTI in Hackettstown, New Jersey – a 5,000 watt outlet at 91.9 FM currently owned by Centenary College.

Starting Thursday, formerly student-run  WNTI will simulcast WXPN joining XPN-owned WXPH in Middletown (Harrisburg), PA and WKHS in Worton, MD to extend the reach and influence of the Philly-based non-commercial  music format.

Teh deal is reported to be worth $1,250,000 in cash plus $500,000 in “services” over ten years to the college.

WNTI 91.9 FM (5.5 Kw) Red=Local Coverage Area

According to philly.com, networking a non-commercial service to extend its audience reach, donations and underwriting is key to survival in the audience diversified digital age at WHYY and WRTI radio. Special signaling technology allows the re-broadcasting station in each market  to seamlessly insert localized  concert announcements, underwriting plugs and public service messages.

Centenary president Barbara-Jayne Lewthwaite stated:

“We are pleased to reach this agreement with WXPN, which preserves a strong voice for great music in our region and opens new horizons for the WNTI community and for Centenary College. 

WXPN brings exceptional resources and expertise in public radio and a deep commitment to serving the needs of listeners and supporting local artists. Centenary will continue to operate its own Internet radio station at WNTI.org to enhance our curriculum and involve students and community volunteers in programming. Centenary students will also be afforded opportunities to intern at WXPN at the University of Pennsylvania.   

We intend to reinvest the proceeds from the license sale in building Centenary’s academic offerings, to support student recruitment and retention and fuel Centenary’s role as an economic engine in Warren County, New Jersey.”