layout feedback

I think this is a nice clean layout. Lots of possibilities for adding a small town and the structures associated with i to the upper right quadrant. If you have additional width you might consider a double track mainline that could add more interest.

Ken S.

You installed three 90-degree crossings to good effect! Reversing loops will provide "train-reversing" routes for added interest.

The operating accessories placed on one side of a siding could be "doubled-up" with operating accessories on the other side of the track; as:  a Lionel a Sawmill on one side, and a Log Conveyer fed by Log Dump Car on the other. Or coal-related accessories -- of which there are many options:  the Lionel Coal Ramp with Coal Loader, the Lionel "up and over" coal accessory, the MTH Coal Tower ...  "Doubling up" on sidings requires selected cars to be facing the right way for addressing the accessory.

Another reader suggested allocating space for a town scene. I "second the motion."  Appropriate accessories would fit there, such as these MTH products:  Gas Station, Car Wash, Fire Station, and Mel's Diner -- plus other non-operating commercial buildings for realism and some residential house for residents.  The town streets could be filled with O-scale automobiles and trucks.

Carry on ...

Mike Mottler     LCCA 12394

Ken,

If you have the full version of SCARM, I would suggest running some trains with some practice switching operations.  It seems to me that you will find switching any of your industrial areas will block various segments of your mainline.  You also might want to consider overall operations again.  Where will your trains start from and where will they end?  Have you considered fictional interchanges with other railroads to bring traffic on and off your railroad?

Just some thoughts for you.

Chuck

I feel Mike Mottler’s  suggestions are great I might add one other.

Since you have harvested and stored your grain to the silo, I suggest adding a freight transfer depot to send your grain to market.  Plenty of possible activity and accessories on the siding to fit along with your silo.

Great beginning. Have fun on your new layout