WWVA News Radio 1170 AM, once a powerhouse in Wheeling broadcasting, has slipped to a 3.2 percent market share, signaling a steep decline for the historic station. Once celebrated for its strong presence in the Ohio Valley, the station has lost much of its relevance as listeners turn elsewhere.
Industry watchers and local residents alike point to a key reason: WWVA has largely moved away from employing local staff and showcasing local talent. With fewer familiar voices behind the microphone and less community involvement, the station no longer reflects the lives and concerns of its audience.
Meanwhile, competing Ohio Valley stations that continue to feature local personalities and community-driven programming have retained stronger listener loyalty. For many in Wheeling, WWVA’s decline represents more than just lost ratings—it reflects the loss of a trusted hometown voice that once played a central role in the region’s daily life.
