Prescott Tower climber carrying the new WGDR antenna to the install point on the new tower in Plainfield. CVCR photo.
New WGDR Antenna Coverage, and Expansion Plans for Broadcast Future
Vermont Business Magazine Central Vermont Community Radio (CVCR), home of WGDR, Plainfield, WGDH, Hardwick, and online listening at WGDR.org, has announced three major developments shaping the station’s future: a required relocation from the Creative Campus, the successful launch of its new broadcast antenna for WGDR, Plainfield, and plans to expand local coverage through future FM translator stations.
CVCR to Relocate Off Creative Campus by March 1, 2027
CVCR has been notified that its lease on the Creative Campus will not be renewed, requiring the station to vacate its current location by March 1, 2027.
“This was not our decision or our plan, but we are ready to meet the moment,” Llu Mulvaney-Stanak, CVCR Executive Director said. While the news is disappointing, leadership noted it is not entirely unexpected following the closure of Goddard College and ongoing uncertainty about the station’s long-term campus presence.
The station emphasized that relocating its broadcast antenna for WGDR in advance was a critical step in securing its future. “Had the antenna still been on campus, this lease decision could have forced WGDR off the air permanently. Instead, our broadcast future is secure,” remarked Mulvaney-Stanak.
After more than five decades in its current home, CVCR described the move as both an ending and a beginning. The station will be transitioning to a more visible and community-centered location designed to strengthen partnerships, expand access, and support long-term sustainability.
“This is an emotional moment for everyone connected to the station,” Tom McMurdo, Chair of the CVCR Board said. “We are leaving a place filled with decades of history and thousands of listener connections. But this is also a wonderful opportunity for the community to shape this new chapter of CVCR.”
New WGDR Antenna Now Broadcasting With Updated Coverage Map
CVCR also announced that its new WGDR antenna is fully operational, delivering improved signal quality and a revised broadcast coverage map.
While the station had anticipated bigger changes in coverage, the constraints of FCC regulations and the need to avoid interference with other stations, resulted in the final footprint closely resembling the previous one.
Listeners may notice differences in signal strength and quality where it comes in and, a few areas now experience new terrain-related blockage. CVCR is currently working with listeners to refine and complete the updated coverage map.
“This new antenna is a major achievement,” Mulvaney-Stanak said. “It is our first new antenna in 30 years and the first time the antenna has had to move in 53 years. Most importantly, given the timing of our lease news, it ensures we did not lose the broadcast future of WGDR.” Funding for this project came from public support, including $25K from the state of Vermont and $40K from area major donors.
CVCR Plans Expansion Through FCC Translator Window
Looking ahead, CVCR announced plans to apply for FM translator stations during the FCC’s upcoming noncommercial filing window this August. Translator stations are low-power facilities that rebroadcast existing programming into areas where signals are limited—particularly important in Vermont’s mountainous terrain.
“Broadcast radio remains essential for discovery, emergency communication, and everyday listening,” McMurdo said. “At the same time, we are committed to meeting audiences wherever they are, including online and on demand.”
The application window marks a significant opportunity for noncommercial stations, with strong national interest expected. CVCR is currently evaluating potential sites and strategy and will share more details as plans develop.
Looking Ahead
CVCR emphasized that the past several weeks represent a pivotal moment in the station’s evolution.
“We are facing these changes with confidence in our community,” Mulvaney-Stanak said. “This is a moment of transition—from a college campus-based station to a fully community-embedded one.”
CVCR thanked listeners, supporters, and volunteers for their continued role in the station’s future.
7.6.2026. Plainfield, VT — Central Vermont Community Radio
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
Vermont Business Magazine