New York Public Radio (NYPR) has announced the elimination of 21 positions, representing 7.7% of its workforce, in an effort to address a $10 million budget shortfall. This marks the organization’s third round of layoffs in the past 18 months.
In an email to staff on Tuesday, NYPR President and CEO LaFontaine Oliver stated that the cuts are necessary to “bring the organization into a financially sustainable position.” The reductions include 18 layoffs and the conversion of three positions to part-time roles. Additionally, seven open roles will remain unfilled, and the company will suspend contributions to its 403(b) retirement plan matching program.
These measures follow previous layoffs of 20 staff members in October 2023 and another 26 in September 2024. Oliver expressed that this latest round of cost-cutting will “allow us to enter the next fiscal year within striking distance of break-even for the first time in some years.”
As part of the restructuring, NYPR is also likely ending its longtime music program “New Sounds.”
The organization, which operates WNYC and Gothamist, has been grappling with financial challenges exacerbated by declining revenues and rising operational costs. The latest staffing cuts aim to stabilize NYPR’s finances and ensure its long-term viability.
Employees affected by the layoffs will receive severance packages and outplacement support. NYPR remains committed to its mission of delivering quality public radio programming to its audience, despite the financial hurdles it currently faces.