Hi Alex
I am more of a toy train guy. My layout at home is carpeted. On parts of this one I may do the same thing. In the other room I may try to do more realistic scenery but I am not good at this. It is more of a toy train display layout allowing trains to run automatically on timers without a lot of operator attention. The trains will run between 2 rooms with dog bone patterns to allow for the wide curves. On the perimeter on each of 2 levels there is room for double track O-120 K-Line Shadow rail. I purchased this when K-Line went under and have been waiting to use it for a while. On one end I will make a simulated switch yard where 3 trains per loop will be staged and be dispatched one at a time conventional using relays. Also I will use a soft start system with relays for realistic operation,automatic bell and whistle operation.. Only 1 train per loop will run at a time to reduce dueling sound systems. So 3 trains per loop on 4 loops would make 12 trains on the perimeter. Maximum train length would be 18 feet with a block system about 22 feet long per block.. I have an 8 car B&O 21 inch K-Line passenger set I want to convert to LED lighting and run so that is how I arrived at the length. I could make one of these loop with a total of 6 trains with a passing siding running in alternate directions. However this may be asking for trouble as I am not sure how reliable turnouts are as far as derailments. Electronically it could be automated without issues. I was looking at the new Ross tubular O switches but am on the fence about doing it.
Then I have room inside for a 5th loop,O96 and some trolley lines. I may do a passing siding on this with 2 or more shorter trains running in opposite directions..
In the area where I live in western Pa, the building sits between the old B&O and WM lines the track right of way is cut through rock. (the parallel WM is now a bike path across the Castleman river) I was hoping to simulate this by filling in the area between the 2 levels. As I said I am not a scenery guy but would like to learn to do this. Below that is the picture of a 1920s bridge that is scheduled to be replaced in April. Through the trees on the right is an old school building,circa 1908 that I have been restoring for the last 10 years. That is where the layout is going. I Dont mean to hijack your thread but I learned a lot reading it and what I am doing is a bit similar so I thought I would post some pics. As for the scenery and bench work I am nowhere near the skill level of you guys. The bridge in OGR is incredible craftsmanship.
