Popular Columbus radio station goes digital-only

CD102.5 has left the airwaves in favor of a digital only format.

The radio station, which broadcasts from the Brewery District, announced the change over the weekend after it was unable to reach an agreement with the owner of its FCC license, ending 30 years on the Columbus airwaves as a bastion for alternative music and up-and-coming bands.

“As we move exclusively to the digital realm, we will have more freedom to play the music that you want to hear – to promote local artists, to engage with the community, and to do all of the things that we’ve always done – but better,” the station said in the statement.

Launched in 1990 as CD101 FM, the station grew to be a popular part of the alternative music scene in Columbus. in 2010, it sold the 101.1 signal and tower to WOSU Public Media. Since then, it has leased rights to the stronger signal on the 102.5 frequency from Zanesville-based Southeastern Ohio Broadcasting System Inc.

When the station turned 25, General Manager Randy Malloy mortgaged his house to buy the radio station and opened the Big Room Bar in Brewery District. The company has launched some efforts over the years to purchase the license outright, including a crowdfunding campaign in 2015.

A message seeking comment was left with Malloy.

With the format change, the station will continue its philanthropy work, too, including its For The Kids drive that has donated $1 million over the years.