Crews at the Sanford Underground Research Facility have finished installing a new hoist rope in the Ross Shaft — a key system used to move people and equipment nearly a mile underground. About 6,100 feet of steel wire rope was installed in April by SURF staff and contractors from Fortis Mining Engineering & Manufacturing.
Officials say the hoist rope is critical for safe, reliable underground operations and will support future upgrades, including a planned double‑decker cage. SURF leadership credited engineers and multiple teams for completing the project, noting that hoist rope replacements are routine but essential for maintaining safety at the facility.
