Tallest building at Western Illinois U imploded after nearly 50 years of housing students
Higgins Hall at Western Illinois University was imploded on Saturday
MACOMB, Ill. (AP) -- The tallest building at Western Illinois University is rubble.
Higgins Hall was imploded Saturday after nearly 50 years as a 20-story dormitory. It was closed in 2013.
Western Illinois said it would be too expensive to make necessary upgrades, including a sprinkler system, new elevators and better plumbing.
The implosion lasted just seconds. A barbecue was held Friday for Higgins Hall alumni and anyone else connected to the dorm. The university has been selling mementos from Higgins, including room numbers, plaques and medallions.