Hi all, looking for some feedback on my new layout design. After planning several smaller layouts and even going so far as to begin construction I've one, only to find myself too put off by the Cons in the plan, I've decided I've just got to "go big or go home".
So, after getting inspired by the MP Arkansas Division layout in GMR2006, I've gone and turned my entire room into layout space. And rather than finding a way to build around my large workbench/spray-booth which was always a problem, I've just integrated it into the plan, by utilizing the space under the lower 1/3rd of the layout as workbench.
There is no prototype location in mind. Not because I don't want one, but because it doesn't really fit into what I want on the layout -- which is both a major automotive facility and some of BN's famous High Line scenery. Unfortunately, the Pacific Northwest is devoid of automobile manufacturing. Moving that scenery to the lower level would be a believable seperation between the regions, but in my mind that type of scenery is better suited to the upper level. Though since both levels are limited to less than 15" of height (the layout must be no more than 30" wide when turned on its side, so that it's moveable) that might be a moot argument.
The lower level will, for now, remain largely empty except for some staging and a programming track. I'll have more than enough work to do on the upper-level to keep me busy for a very long time.
Anyways, here's the plan. I'm looking for criticism, advice, etc on what I've got there, and any ideas on what, if anything, to do with the upper-right peninsula. For now it's empty save a 6' passing siding, and I wonder if a second helix up there is really necessary or if I could deal with the track looping back on itself. TrainCat's new woodchip loader has me thinking about putting something like that up there, in prep for a paper facility one-day on the lowere level, though I'm not familiar with prototype applications and how a loader like that would be integrated into a larger facility.
