Prepping for the Burke Mountain HSQ Installation (Part 2)

News emerged that the deal to buy Ascutney's lightly used 10 year old HSQ fell through. There haven't been any details behind the decision. Even though that deal fell through, very reputable talk has emerged that Burke has forged ahead and purchased a brand new Leitner/Poma HSQ. As of this posting Burke has still not released official word of the purchase of the new lift. Even though the new lift may have been the more expensive route, I believe this is a good move for both logistical and public relations reasons.

Logistically, deconstruction, transport, and reconstruction of a used lift is likely rather complex. Additionally, replacement/modification parts would have to be secured to fit the new geometry of the lift as it would have been reconstructed at Burke. Having a brand new lift allows Burke to have exactly what it needs for construction parts and it can reduce costs by sharing parts and training of lift technicians with the Leitner/Poma HSQ that services the lower mountain.

Public Relations wise, buying a new lift signifies a dedication of investment in the mountain and also prevents Burke from being labeled the bad guy that swooped in an bought Ascutney's quad and killing the chances that that mountain would ever open for skiing again (interesting note that Burke barely survived a somewhat similar demise 11 years ago).

Meanwhile prep work has continued for the new lift.

From the location of the base terminal:

The big logs have been removed from the new liftline:

The summit terminal area has been cut and is ready for grading:

The area around the Mid-Burke lodge has been regraded to remove the uphill section between the Willoughby Quad and the base of the new HSQ: