I maintain two layouts that are built this way. I will get more information on the electronic commerical timers we use on the layouts. We use ZW-L’s for the power. All power from the ZW-L’s go through the timers. Timers start with a relay that is closed via a push button on the outside of the layout. The layouts are protected by tempered glass doors. 
It’s a very reliable system. One layout (picture attached) is at the Children’s Hospital at Dartmouth in Lebanon, NH and is seen by 250 kids a day. The other layout is at a local building supply company in West Lebanon, NH.
Side note: It is challenging as more sets from Lionel are LionChief, but I have developed a circuit to mimic the battery in the remote. Both the circuit board from the remote and the battery circuit ride in a lighted car. Works wonderfully!!
Larry
