| KRSM first took to the airwaves in 2017. In 2020, during the civil unrest in South Minneapolis, KRSM hosts did not have access to KRSM studios to respond and give voice to the community, in real time. This challenge was one of many seeds that led to the development of PCC, which provides 24-hour access to the community-centered station.
Designed by Gensler, the new 4,495 square foot space includes three studios for KRSM 98.9 FM visible from Chicago Avenue with unfettered access to the station for hosts. KRSM continues to be a vital platform for emerging voices and local storytelling, offering essential tools and resources to those looking to share their experiences and perspectives.
Adjacent to KRSM’s new home is the Scene Shop, which will serve as the laboratory and building space for PCC’s Technical Arts Training (TAT) program. Led by André Samples, TAT is a fully paid, multi-phase program that introduces community members to technical trades such as carpentry, welding, scenic painting, lighting, sound, and projection design, job skills that are in demand. The program features hands-on instruction, apprenticeships with local venues, and comprehensive job placement support. In addition, youth participants in the summer Step-Up internship program, as well as local creators, will use the space to gain new skills and launch careers in the creative arts.
Together, these new facilities reflect a bold investment in the creative and economic future of South Minneapolis—offering access, training, and infrastructure that uplift community voices, close opportunity gaps and activates individual agency. |
