By Associated Press - Saturday, July 1, 2017

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.

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