Mike,
Let me be the first to welcome you to the New Layout Club!! I am glad you are finally getting to start as well! I followed your topic on the wiring problem. That was a good idea to check how it would work for both DCS and conventional at one time.
The new plan does look a bit more interesting. One concern is access. The original plan looks like you would have easy access to all parts of the layout. The new one looks like you would want an access hole right where the yard is.
What do you plan to do with the tracks at the door opening? A lift out bridge or duck under. I can see you made it better in the second plan so that only one track and no switches are over the opening.
So on either plan it looks like you have an industry siding. Do you plan to have more than one industry at the siding? Another siding would be nice for a little more action. Of course I know your favorite railroads, and you have them on the control panel. Very nice design.
What engines do you plan to run, and do you have any long cars? Do you have any preferred buildings that you want to include?
I guess that's enough questions for now. I'll keep following your progress.
