Chuck, both good points. I was going to do something about the bridge situation, but haven't had time to bring it up. I thought I mentioned it some time ago, but may have decided to drop it until I had time to offer a solution. I just notice John added another bridge, so maybe that could be moved. Even though it's just a model railroad, I don't like trains having to go through that many switches using the curved part.
And you'll see in my post a bit ago, I mentioned the direction problem. I'm not sure fouling the main to back into the yard though is a big deal. Mainlines get fouled all the time in reality. We often see trains stopped along I-10 and I-40 all the time waiting for other trains to get out of the way. Granted, it's not ideal, but I don't see a solution given John's desire for elevation changes, etc. The only solution that's been mentioned is a 2nd bridge across the entryway. There are spurs on both sides that could be joined easy enough to make the yard a through yard. Add in changing the bridge on the left to make a longer lead. I may work on doing that after I get my shower.
