Indianapolis Radio Stations on the Move

Indianapolis is experiencing a significant shift in its media landscape as WIBC-FM 93.1 and several of its sister radio stations prepare to vacate their long-time home on Monument Circle. This relocation marks the end of an era for broadcast radio in one of the city’s most iconic buildings, but promises a new chapter. Listeners can expect their favorite local voices to continue broadcasting, albeit from a new downtown location.

The End of an Era on Monument Circle

For decades, the iconic Embarcadero Building on Monument Circle has been a vibrant hub for Indianapolis radio. Now, a significant chapter closes as WIBC-FM 93.1, the city’s leading news and talk station, along with its eight sister stations – including sports talk powerhouse WNDE-AM 1260, 107.5/1070 The Fan, adult contemporary B105.7 (WYXB), and country favorite HANK FM (WLHK) – prepare to vacate their long-standing studios. This mass relocation is driven by the recent sale of the building to Kite Realty Group Trust, which has ambitious plans for the redevelopment and modernization of this prime downtown property. It marks a bittersweet farewell to a location deeply embedded in the city’s broadcast history.

A New Chapter: Broadcasting from the Former Star Building

While bidding farewell to Monument Circle, the stations aren’t venturing far. Their new home will be at 200 E. Market St., a location with its own rich media history as part of the former Indianapolis Star complex. This strategic move by Emmis Communications, the parent company, consolidates operations into a modern, purpose-built facility. The Market Street address promises state-of-the-art studios, advanced technological infrastructure, and collaborative office spaces, ensuring Indianapolis listeners continue to receive high-quality local programming. This transition reflects a commitment to innovation and listener experience, maintaining local radio’s vital role in the community.

What This Means for Listeners

Continuity of Broadcasts

For dedicated listeners, the good news is that the move is primarily an internal logistical change. The stations will continue their regular programming without interruption. The change in physical location will not affect broadcast frequencies or signal reach. Listeners should experience seamless transitions, with their favorite hosts and shows broadcasting from the new Market Street studios, delivering the same great content they’ve come to expect.

A Glimpse into the Future

Beyond the immediate logistical shifts, this relocation offers a glimpse into broader trends shaping both urban development and the local media landscape. The redevelopment of the Monument Circle property highlights the city’s continuous efforts to revitalize its core, potentially bringing new businesses, retail, or residential opportunities to one of Indiana’s most recognizable landmarks. Simultaneously, Emmis Communications’ investment in a new, modern broadcasting facility underscores their long-term vision for local radio. In an increasingly digital and competitive environment, securing a cutting-edge home reaffirms the enduring value and future potential of local, over-the-air broadcasting in connecting with the Indianapolis community.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Which stations are moving?
  WIBC-FM 93.1, WNDE-AM 1260, and seven other Emmis sister stations, including 107.5/1070 The Fan, B105.7 (WYXB), and HANK FM (WLHK), are relocating.
• Why are they moving?
  The Monument Circle building was sold to Kite Realty Group Trust, which plans to redevelop the property, prompting the need for new office and studio space.
• Where are the stations moving to?
  Their new home will be 200 E. Market St., within the historically significant former Indianapolis Star complex in downtown Indianapolis.
• Will this affect my ability to listen?
  No, there will be no disruption. Broadcast frequencies and signal reach remain unchanged, as this is a physical relocation of studios, not a change in broadcast operations.
• When is the move happening?
  The move is either underway or imminent, as the stations prepare to fully transition their operations to their new Market Street studios.

This significant move for Indianapolis radio is a reminder of the city’s dynamic growth and evolution. While we bid farewell to an era of broadcasting from Monument Circle, the future of local radio remains vibrant and committed to serving the community from its new, historically rich location on Market Street.

Indy Radio Exits Iconic Monument Circle Home