Requesting commentary on proposed layout 8 x 16 with 4 x 8 extension O Gauge

I am trying to read the elevations. Is the entire center elevated, with the grades in front and back between the switches? It looks like a 6" climb over about 54-57". That is pretty steep. I would at least set up a couple of loops, with two switches and the exact transition and grade you want to use and test your engines and the longest train you want to pull.

Personally, I would revisit that. Maybe start the grades around the curve at the end of the table. I like the plan, but you may be trying to squeeze a tad too much track into it.

It is a very good looking layout, but how will you reach into the center of the layout?  Seems way too deep.  Can you walk around behind it?  Even if you can walk around it, the reach to the center is four feet.  May need some access hatches.  10% grade is extreme.

10% grade is way too steep. I have a 5" elevation change over about 60 inches and most engines can only pull a couple of cars up that steep of a grade. Having the switches on the grades will be a challenge as well. I would extend the grades around to the left end and see how that looks. The upper loop may need to be shortened a bit to make it all fit.
The sidings on the upper level could be reconfigured to work with industries better. I like the long yard on the main level for storage and classification. Let the upper level be where the cars get delivered to and picked up from.
The plan looks a little track heavy too.
You should check and double check clearances as well. Long cars, engine pilots, and steam engine roofs are the usual culprits.

Lot's of other planning experts on here (I'm not one), will probably comment to. It is a good start overall though and just needs some tweaking.

Good luck.

Thank you all for the responses and ideas.  I have access corridors around all four sides but I may have to open the middle somewhat in order to get in an access hatch.

The center section and everything labelled with height is 6 inches above the lower level tracks.  And yes, I know there is probably too much track.  It is one of my faults in trying to probably do too much.  I was trying to design it so that I can run three trains (plus the super streets) at the same time.  I'd rather run trains than create scenery but that may be major flaw on my part.

I AM concerned about the intersections from the low level to the high level and vice versa.  I'll see if I can redesign that somehow.  I doubt i would send a train up and down too often but your comments are well appreciated.

I did check the distance between center rails and except for the changes between levels, I seem to have at least 6 or 7 inches center rail to center rail.

Let me get back to work on the design.  It seems I have plenty of time on my hands and i have to wait for the Mianne benchwork to come in anyway.

Keep safe,

John

Just the transition problems alone are enough reasons to cut down the 10% grade.