Positive track contact using access lift panel

As easy as tapping power feeds off the fixed rails on the hinge side of the layout and attach them to the corresponding rails on the lift panel.  You could do this simply using lockons, with wires laid on top of the layout.  Or more permanently, solder the wires to the rails and run them underneath, leaving enough slack to open the lift.  A positive connection can also be made using blade connectors shoved into the rails from the under side.  Use stranded wire so it will flex without breaking.

This is assuming that both layout sides of the lift are wired to the transformer, that you are not relying on the lift, when down, to make an electrical connection.   If you are concerned about a runaway train while the lift is open, the power could be cut with a kill switch of sorts.  But then we open another can of worms in wiring complexity.  Think of it this way...with each connection introduced into layout wiring, there's the potential for another lack of continuity.

Bruce

Are you sure that the track won't bind when you raise the lift up. I tried it with the hinge barrels below like yours and it bound. Most members advise that the hinge should be above the top of the track

Saw that too, but didn't comment as it appears the trough in the table edge permits the track to dip down into it when the lift is raised.

Bruce

The track still has to be on the same plane. It will still bind.

Lionel puts the hinge behind the break in the track. That way the track on the lifted panel raises up off the stationary track that is across the area of the hinge. And as you can see, the lifted panel has to be cut out for the stationary track

brwebster is on to it. The other feature that you need to add are micro-switches the break the power to the approaching tracks when the lift is up.

Because passenger trains with lighted cars and pick-up rollers can pass power along, you would have to isolate away from the length of the train.

Then, when you lift the bridge, track is cut back far enough that a train will stopped.

I am digging through my links for the thread that shows the contact switch installation. It's pretty simple and very good insurance against murphy.

If you use the forum search feature on lift bridge or lift out or lift up you may find it.

Ok, I found a couple that may assist you

Shutoff circuit

And a lift support/assist idea from Susan Deats-think hood rod on you car

I'll keep looking

Here's another Lift bridge video

edit- note: they are not relays but micro pressure switches

Also take note of the track feeds to the bridge.

Using the KISS principal, turn the lift up into a switch.  Connect all outside rails (commons) to a terminal strip on bottom of lift up.  Isolate the commons from the hinged side.  Use larger wire from open side of table and install one reliable contact for bridge to table on open side.  See contact examples:

See more info and detail for other possibilities:

Bridges Wired to Control Track Power with Relays for Engine Protection

or Access Bridges used as Switches

Great, great help. Thank you very very much. I really appreciate the sketches you sent as attachment.

Jerry