I finally have the track roughly in for both loops except the flip up bridges to enter the layout center. The roadbed, track and power drops are in although no wiring connects to the drops. I put in switches for both ends of each passing siding and tested that an engine and caboose can go back and forth from one track to the other. I checked the length of each passing siding, and I can fit 5 Menards 40-foot boxcars on each. I think that was equal to one H9, 4 2-bay hoppers, and a caboose. Regardless, they are the same length. I would like to have them longer, but on such a small layout, this is good enough. I could have double tracked, but I don't want that. I have checked that a train can run on all the mainline track without incidence. I have the switches in for sidings, but no sidings at this time.
One issue I think I have a solution for is on the left side of the layout, the higher track is in front of the lower track. I didn't want to put in solid scenery, so I have a stand in until a better option comes. I have roughly installed a K-Line set of timber piers that allow me to see through to the other track and future buildings. For now it is just roughed in. They are not fastened to the table, and I didn't measure or count ties to make sure of even spacing. The main thing is they will hold the SD40-2 and caboose while they travel back and forth.
It is beginning to look like a railroad!
