Schematic -Trenton subdivision in N Scale

I put a considerable amount of thought into what I wanted on a model railroad layout. Developing a list of items I want to model, how I want to operate and the time I want to represent.

I decided the time period would be 1970’s to present, allowing a wide variety of engines, rolling stock and VIA Rail passenger equipment.

OPERATION:

-Must be able to run multiple trains on main line while I build trains in the yard

-Must be able to run with a single operator and have the capability of more

-Must be capable of running long freight trains, up to 20 cars

-Must be able to incorporate some of the historical reference in the area

-DCC

Model Aspects:

-Double Main Line with passing crossovers long enough for 20 car trains

-Main Line clear of interruptions for continuous run of trains

-Freight Yard with arrival/departure and classification tracks, clear of main line

-Engine Repair/Maintenance Facility with engine storage area

-Car repair shop

-Passenger Yard with Maintenance Facility

-Area to turn passenger trains

-Branch Line with long enough run for independent switching operation

-Container Yard

-Inter-Modal Yard

-Tunnel to provide appearance of distance

This is a pretty long list and in order to meet my requirements I spent very long hours researching many layout designs on ModelRailroader.com, old and new magazines and any train show I could get to, asking lots of questions.

I then moved to the drawing process. Using the layout design tool provided by Atlas, I started designing and then scraping several drawing. Eventually I came up with my “Ultimate Dream” layout.

Before I could move forward with the construction, I had to consult what I call the “Happiness Meter.” This is a simple slide rule formula that is influenced by several variables to determine actual layout size and scope.

Slide top and bottom variables to match the situation. Somewhere in the middle will be the layout size that will allow a continued relationship.

NOTE: room size is not one of the variables! Just because you have a large room, does not guarantee that you can use the entire space for a model railroad.

After consulting the Happiness Meter, I went back to the design process and reduced the ultimate dream layout to the design that you see posted here.