Houston's KUHF pursuing dual-service strategy with purchase of KTRU

Houston's KUHF-FM plans to buy KTRU 91.7 FM, a 50,000-watt student radio station owned by Rice University, and convert it to a full-time classical music service under the new call letters KUHC, the Houston Chronicle reports. KUHF, a broadcast service of the University of Houston that now airs classical music and NPR News on 88.7, will become an all-news station.

The $9.5 million deal, approved this morning by UH's Board of Regents, is to be financed by enhanced underwriting and major gifts fundraising.

“The acquisition of a second public radio station delivers on our promise to keep the University of Houston at the forefront of creating strong cultural, educational and artistic opportunities that benefit students and the city of Houston,” said Renu Khator, chancellor of the UH System and president of the University of Houston, in a news release.

Rice University students campaigned to save the station, which has long been an outlet for underground and local music, according to the Houston Press. Under the terms of the deal, KRTU.org will continue streaming a student-programmed music service.