These first three pictures take you into the often discussed but rarely seen Murdock to Taconic Tunnel. The tunnel, since Taconic Hall was razed, is used for electrical, phone and data lines to the Smith House.

Looking the other way exiting the tunnel we see the new conduit and a section of new floor in the area of the tunnel which is the south east corner of the basement.

Areas of the building where bricks have been removed are filled with concrete blocks. Blocks are also used for new interior support walls. The new wall here will be in the elevator mechanical room. The elevator is being relocated to the south end of the building.

A few months ago I displayed a picture of a brick archway and asked for any ideas what it could be. The most popular answer was the tunnel entrance. We have since learned that the boilers to produce steam for the three campus buildings were located in the Murdock basement. One of these boiler archways as been filled in and other removed to provide access to a basement room. These archways are located in the middle of the basement on the east hallway wall.

A few more examples of the masonry work to clean up doorways and archways.

The doorways will be finished with these metal frames. Walls will be constructed with metal studs

Looking up we see the new sheet rock ceilings. These are barriers for fire protection. New ductwork is being installed to better move heat and cold air throughout the building.

Look down we see the old wooden floors being covered with plywood. New floors will include carpet for offices and conference rooms and tile for the hallways. Classroom flooring is being discussed.

The stairways in Murdock Hall have been affectionately referred to as “ Mount Murdock” as they were steep and difficult to climb. This is one last look at “ Mount Murdock” as the south stairs are being removed to make way for the elevator. A new staircase will be built around the elevator area.