In a refreshing development, we are back on track for progress on the Onondaga Cutoff! The leaks in the plumbing system that have delayed progress on the benchwork are now repaired, including the pesky ones on the domestic water supply main. Valves have been replaced, and the whole meter arrangement stabilized, so we should be good here for some time.
Tonight, I made some major progress. Here is a photograph of the new landing for the stairway as viewed from the basement floor, including the supporting studs for the meter and the future big turn in the short line.
The new landing is assembled from left-over lumber from layout progress as well as a variety of plywood from other home projects - it pays to save bigger 'scraps' as they always come in useful somewhere down the line in an old home.
Next, here's a view looking down the stairway into the basement, with Clarence watching curiously if you look carefully.
The benchwork for the shortline that was constructed previously comes in from the top right. Now, finally, with all supporting studs in place atop a very solid landing assembly, it was time to install the last of the benchwork on the shortline - which finishes all benchwork with the lone exception of one last industry that will go in shortly.
An overall, ground-level view of the long-awaited benchwork for the Minoa & Euclid:
Visible here is the whole deal: the tunnel in the stairs at top left, the grade down to Skaneateles Creek (the bridge for which sits where it will be permanently installed after weathering), and the first pier supporting the roadbed along the front wall. Behind the camera is the west end of Onondaga Yard.
Heat and humidity outdoors is a good reason for me to keep moving on the model railroad. Tracklaying, wiring, and the engine yard construction coming next!
~RGDave
