If you guys are having issues, imagine my lack of expertise ! I'd love to be able to do all that, Carl, but just don't have the expertise with SCARM. I would love to incorporate some elevation changes, as well. I'm also thinking of a two track tunnel along a portion of the wall in the train room.
I think the idea of having a couple of the sidings pass through is a good idea. That would allow possible travel in both directions and an engine escape route.
It would be an area where basically complete trains would be staged, but I'd leave a couple sidings open for just rolling stock and being able to use a switcher. The O-31 design does allow for longer sidings.
I'm on the north shore of Boston and the wind and snow are finally starting to crank up, so I'll be leaving soon.
Thanks.