Dave, IMHO you make lots of sense, with suggestions and opinions. I agree on the over kill in yard with the cross over. It would be nice to use, however I could always sell it on e-bay or here. I was messing with you, putting the bridge at a random spot. 
I'll make some more changes as we seem to be thinking along the same lines. I am tending to keep the double crossover for the very reason Mark stated, it helps a small layout. Not sure the best place to put switches in place of the crossover in the yard.
On other notes, the long main lines straight away against the wall, I am envisioning two different grades for those tracks. The one closest to the wall should be the higher track of the two until they meet near the entry bridge. I hope there is enough space between them to have a hillside or rock cliff between the two lines. (Leaning toward rocky cliff) Any opinions??? All are welcome.
