Layout and Track Plan

SCHEMATIC

The schematic layout shows more clearly the two main lines each with its own switching yard. The cross-over between the two mains takes place at the front of the layout. Stubs 2 and 3 are hidden in tunnels shortly after they branch. It is my intent to 'hide' trains on these stubs to have them appear during a demonstration to add realism to the display. Yard B is indicated with dashed lines because I've not yet committed to it.

It is my intent to use PRR and Amtrak equipment with the hypothetical scenario being that the time period is the early 70's when Amtrak was taking over passenger service. The railroad's location, therefore, is in the north-east and down the eastern seaboard. I can run Amtrak equipment that might be found in the Boston-Washington corridor or going, for example,  to Florida giving me some rationale for using just about any Amtrak stock I choose. I can also run a some PRR passenger equipment because Amtrak hasn't had time to fill its equipment roster completely so it's using some borrowed or leased PRR equipment.

Of course, I cannot use any steam locomotives except, occasionally, a small 'excursion' train for die-hard rail fans. I have my original PRR 2-6-4 steam switcher and a couple of PRR coaches for this purpose.

Since the PRR will be handling all the freight on the line I will be using PRR GP 40's etc. for motive power. Both PRR and Amtrak have right-of-way maintenance equipment on the road.

A final comment: I'm not a purist so some prototypical details will be cheerfully ignored. Also, while I plan to strive to create the proper atmosphere with scenery and details, I'm not an artist either so, for example, ballast may not be the "right" color or I may have the "wrong" rocks for Pennsylvania.

It is my intent, however, to have derail free operations so my focus will be on track work and rolling stock quality. Later I may get into multiple trains on the same route because, you see,

I'm not a model railroader

I JUST LOVE TO WATCH SEVERAL LITTLE TRAINS ALL GOING AROUND AND AROUND.