WKU has announced videoboard renovations to Diddle Arena and Houchens-Smith Stadium, as well as an audio system renovation in Diddle Arena and a new scoreboard at the WKU Soccer Complex. 

The renovations will enhance both the videoboard in Houchens-Smith Stadium and the dual videoboards inside Diddle Arena to increase both the definition and size of the videoboards. The viewing area of the screens will increase by nearly 400 percent, according to a WKU press release. 

“We are very excited for these major upgrades to the fan experience at our two largest venues for next season,” Director of Athletics Todd Stewart said in a press release. “We welcome thousands of visitors to the campus of Western Kentucky University every home event, and continuing to enhance their experience is vital. There will never be a better time to enjoy a game from the stands and feel closer to the action on the field and court than in 2018 on The Hill.”

The total cost of the renovations is estimated at $2.4 million, WKU said, and the funding is set to come from a “strategic fundraising campaign” by the Hilltopper Athletic Foundation.

These are the first major renovations to Houchens-Smith Stadium since the second side of the stadium was added in 2008, and the first major renovations to Diddle Arena since suites were added and seating capacity was reduced in 2002. 

Construction is set to begin on Feb. 12 for the videoboard in Houchens-Smith Stadium, while the upgrades to the boards and sound system in Diddle Arena won’t take place until after May commencement, according to the release. 

Reporter Tyler Eaton can be reached at 270-776-6797 [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter at @Tyler_eaton1022