The New York Times reports that 2,000 FM stations across the USA have received new licenses from the FCC over the last two years. All are classified as Low Power FM — operating at 100 watts with a broadcast range of roughly five to 15 miles, depending on the surrounding terrain and the proximity of other FM transmissions. About a third are already on the air: non-profit radios serving their communities with locally originating programs.

According to the FCC: “Through the Low Power FM program, the commission’s been able to empower community voices, promote media diversity, and enhance local programming by giving small stations a chance to make a big impact.” 

Go here for the full NYT article on the emerging LPFM movement.