BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — Western Kentucky University's Hilltopper Hall is permanently closing and set for demolition while two other dorms will temporarily close, according to a release.
Hilltopper Hall initially closed in early 2024 because of structural damage. The Student Life Foundation at WKU, which owns the campus' residence halls, said it was the subject of an in-depth structural analysis that revealed widespread design and construction flaws before concluding that repairs were not feasible. The site's future use will be determined at a later date.
The SLF added Regents Hall and Normal Hall, two of the university's newest dorms, will be temporarily closed for at least the upcoming academic year. This comes following the results of an independent engineering assessment after the SLF questioned whether issues similar to Hilltopper Hall could exist in Regents and Normal.
The study revealed the ceilings must be replaced to comply with building code requirements. Bracing also must be installed on the first and second floors of both buildings to enhance resistance to high winds and seismic activity.
Students will not reside in either dorm during the 2025-26 academic year while repairs continue. Regents and Normal opened in 2021.
“We engaged an independent, nationally respected engineering firm to thoroughly evaluate the situation,” said Brad Howard, chair of the Student Life Foundation. "Regents and Normal do not appear to share the same significant structural issues identified in Hilltopper Hall. However, some components do not meet Kentucky’s commercial occupancy standards and must be addressed before students can return."
The closures affect approximately 1,000 students; however, the SLF said WKU has sufficient capacity to meet on-campus housing demands. The university is also finalizing a lease agreement with the Hyatt Place hotel next to campus.
“Our focus remains on supporting every Hilltopper throughout their journey on our Hill," said Martha Sales, Vice President of Student Experience and Dean of Students. “The changes we announced today, including a new premier housing option and significant renovations to several existing halls this summer, represent our commitment to delivering a premier living and learning experience at WKU.”
WKU's Housing and Residence Life Staff are distributing updated housing assignments and will be available to address questions from students, the SLF added.
“Through the years, we’ve worked closely with the Student Life Foundation to address challenges as they have arisen,” said WKU President Timothy C. Caboni. “Our students and their well-being remain our shared top priority, and we’ve demonstrated in the past that we’re willing to make tough decisions if they’re in the best interest of our students.”
Students and families can find more information on the Fall 2025 Housing page.