BISBEE'S RADIO FOR THE PEOPLE

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In 1997, a group of local visionaries in the border town of Bisbee, Arizona, formed the Bisbee Radio Project, Inc.  Located in the mile-high Mule Mountains in the northern Chihuahuan desert, Bisbee comprises a community of former copper miners, artists, bikers, writers, dancers, musicians, and similar free spirits—truly an eclectic mix of residents.  

Located in the heart of Brewery Gulch KBRP 96.1 FM, went on the air with automated programming on November 21, 2004.  Live programming began on the Winter Solstice, December 21, 2004. 

In December of 2005, funds were raised within the community to hoist the antenna from the low point in Brewery Gulch to the top of the Central School Project bell tower.  This strategic placement more than doubled the number of listeners who dwell in the winding canyons of the Mule Mountains.  In 2008, KBRP moved its office and broadcast studios to the Central School Project.  We remained there until 2015, when KBRP settled into part of the downtown theater known as the Bisbee Royale. In June 2021, the station moved again to its current home on the second floor of the Bisbee Mercantile Building. This site allows greater accessibility to the public, and space for a variety of community activities.

Our dedicated volunteers devote their time and talents to manage all aspects of the radio station. Regular activities include: live broadcasting, studio-to-transmitter technology, implementing FCC rules and regulations, library and database maintenance, fund raising, and the experience of creating and working together.  We are introducing new programming featuring local news and community affairs. And of course, live DJs bringing an incredible range of musical entertainment to our audiences.  KBRP is a bustling hub of activity, creation, and fun.  

Our inspiration and guidance for this labor of love is expressed in our mission statement:

“The mission of KBRP is to maintain a community media center dedicated to creating an awareness of local interests and socially responsible programming. KBRP…through its cooperative structure, aims to entertain and enrich…with a broad mix of education, culture, art, humanities and music.”