The flood has arrived. 10 years ago, the FCC slammed the brakes after they opened up a process to allow religious satellite broadcasters to essentially apply for any unused FM frequency anywhere without limits. Needless to say, the NAB was fit to be tied…. Until the FCC decided to allow the FM translators to be leased or sold to AM radio stations, usually to provide a reliable night time signal
http://streamingradioguide.com/recent-apps.php
The FCC put limits in place, rejected several thousand applications and has released the logjam from 2003. Many of these will likely be sold for $25-$100k each, once approved. Tendering is the first screening step to see if the FCC will even accept an application for a Construction Permit (CP).