KUFO Returns as Portland's Rock Authority on 102.9 FM

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, February 4, 2026 | 12:25pm CT

KUFO-FM Portland OR

Connoisseur Media has relaunched KUFO on 102.9 FM in Portland, OR bringing a modern, Active Rock outlet back to the market after a 15-year absence. The KUFO brand returns following a run of on-air stunts that sparked local buzz ahead of its official launch at midnight on February 4.

The station spent February 2 looping "I Got You Babe" in a Groundhog Day-themed stunt, followed by a day of Star Wars music that hinted at a major reveal.

KUFO Program Director Ross MacLeod said the station is designed to fill a long-standing gap in the market. Portland has supported classic rock and alternative formats in recent years, he noted, but lacked a dedicated outlet for current, guitar-driven rock.

Senior Vice President of Programming Keith Dakin said the timing was right to revive the brand, citing renewed audience demand for faster-paced, modern rock that is not currently represented on the dial.

Connoisseur Portland Vice President and Market Manager Mark Handwerger called the move a team-driven decision rooted in local insight, adding that the KUFO brand's history and listener loyalty made its return a natural fit.

The relaunched KUFO emphasizes new and current rock, fewer commercial interruptions, and a tighter clock structure aimed at delivering what the company describes as a more focused, music-forward experience.

KUFO previously operated at 101.1 FM until early 2011, when sister station KXL moved to that frequency and KUFO went silent. KXL continues on 101.1 FM, while KUFO now returns on 102.9 FM with a renewed mission centered on rock programming.