WESR is now broadcasting from its new tower facility

WESR-FM is now broadcasting from a brand-new tower serving listeners across the Shore. Station officials say construction wrapped up this last week, and early reports show stronger reception of 103.3, especially across lower Northampton County.

The new tower was built in partnership with Verizon Wireless and includes a Verizon antenna mounted at the top. It replaces the station’s original tower, which had been in service since 1968. That older structure is scheduled to be demolished in the coming months.

Station owner Charlie Russell says the upgrade will help WESR continue its decades-long commitment to around-the-clock local news, weather, sports, and community information. Russell, who has spent 57 years with the station, says improving coverage in lower Northampton was the primary goal and early feedback suggests the mission has been accomplished.

He also notes that atmospheric conditions can occasionally affect radio signals, particularly during hot and humid weather. A station broadcasting on the same frequency out of Morehead City, North Carolina, can sometimes interfere due to a coastal phenomenon known as “ducting.” Russell says that station is operating within its license, and disruptions, while uncommon, are simply part of the science of radio.

Russell also said that to expect a brief periods on low power sometime over the next few months due to the demolition of the old tower to protect the tower demolition crew.