WKU begins construction on underground steam piping to improve the heating of buildings during the fall and winter.

According to Bryan Russell, chief facilities officer, WKU operates more than three miles of underground steam piping. This steam piping is the primary source of heat for most buildings on campus from October through March. 

The construction is aimed at replacing a section of piping that was originally built in 1967 and has been identified as having active leaks. This section of piping lies right in front of the Florence Schneider Hall and McLean Hall. 

Facilities work is typically done entirely during the summer months to minimize any disruption to those on campus. 

The project is funded through Asset Preservation funds given to the university by the Commonwealth of Kentucky to replace and modernize aging infrastructure on campus, Russell said. 

“Replacing these primary steam lines will provide the university with a more reliable and efficient heating source during the colder fall and winter months,” Russell said.