I know eveyone sees a million of these a week, but I’m seeking comments about my latest attempt at a new layout design. It’s a freelance design inspired by Western PA coal operations. It’s a modern layout (e.g., present day) with both industry and passenger operations. The basic footprint of the benchwork is fixed by the room size and other variables, but I’m open to nearly any suggestions on the trackwork. I’d really like a dual-track main, but I’m not wedded to it. Any comments and suggestions to help make the operations more “interesting” would be greatly appreciated.
Upper Level (A connects to A as an overpass)
Upper Level Elevated Section (e.g., A)
Lower Level
Helix (upper connections shown)
one things i have notice on the multiple levels is the lack of cross overs you should try to have more in different areas and do you plan on having any staging. That could help with the operation options you can have.
If I’m correct looking at your dimensions, it looks like you only have a 10’ X 10’ space for your layout. That’s gotta be tough to configure. You’re all helix with very little room for yard track or siding. It looks good however though in the space you have alotted.
I built a layout several years ago inspired by Dave Frary’s Pennsy Middle Division.
INTERNET MODEL TRAINS™ - Kalmbach “The Pennsy Middle Division in HO Scale”
In concept, it is similar to what you have. You might want to check it out for some ideas. Good luck.
Cam
If you don’t mind my asking, what sides are you going to have access to? Bottom left I’m assuming, and everything near that? If so, you’d better be skinny if you’re going to fit into the space between the loops! Thats not much wiggle room!
Thats a tough space to work with in HO if you want a multi deck design.
I can walk around the loops. The isle between loops is tight, but doable for one person; I think it’s 14 or 18". The layout is on two walls, represented by the top and right sides of the pictures. Hope this helps.