History of KPCW
Since our founding on July 2, 1980, we’ve grown from a volunteer-run station to a robust newsroom and production team serving Summit and Wasatch counties. Through it all, our mission has stayed the same—to build a more connected, informed, and engaged community here in the Wasatch Back.
A Look Back Over The Decades
1978
KPCW's "founding five" began planning to kickstart a local radio station in Park City.
1980
Founder Blaire Feulner signs the station on the air for the very first time.
1989
KPCW & Cole Sport host the first Back Alley Bash, a family-friendly community event.
1992
The station becomes a NPR affiliate to carry national headlines and programs.
2008
KPCW began broadcasting from its current location at 460 Swede Alley.
2014
The station launches its major donor program, KPCW's Broadcasters Club.
2018
Local nonprofits join KPCW's fundraising efforts during its biannual pledge drives.
2020
KPCW completes station expansion, now the Spencer F. Eccles Broadcast Center.
2021
Rich Tones Curated Jazz with host Rich Rector airs for the first time.
2022
KPCW launches The Local, a free email newsletter with the latest local news.
2023
KPCW's expands newscasts to weekday afternoons on the The Local View .
2024
KPCW redesigns its mobile app with new features and streamlined design.
2025
KPCW's debuts its newest public affairs show, The Community Campfire.
This video was created in honor of KPCW's 25th anniversary celebration in 2005 by:
- Director, Producer and Co-Writer: Leslie Thatcher
- Co-Writer: Franci Eisenberg
- Editor: Fred Heslop