Updated 5/19/2018:
Benchwork construction has begun! 
The framework to support Table surfaces 1, 2, and 3 is underway. This approach differs from the one in Panhandle 1.0 in that it uses a 2" x 2" frame to support a 5/8" (19/32") 5-ply board. My friend Price Bradshaw deserves the credit for this technique, having used it very successfully in his own large layout.
I'm just starting to gather all the pieces here. The two 1" x 4" x 10' poplar boards will go onto the walls (instead of legs) to support the framework.
Yes Virginia, there is a plan! 
I don't have all the frame members installed yet, but you can see 2 of the 3 surfaces in the photo below.
The first one is proceeding slowly as I get back into the process of constructing benchwork. I really want to get this right as opposed to rushing to get trains rolling. This layout is a marathon, not a sprint.
More when I know it.
George
