A model railroad layout starts with a good plan
Given the limited space (an L-shaped shelf layout in a car garage), the track plan will focus on realistic operations rather than simply running trains for the sake of it. Selective compression is essential. I plan to model the most interesting industries along the branch line, compressing them into a small area to enhance operational appeal.
Realistic operations
I have always been a realistic operations modeler with my previous layouts, even though both were much larger (built in a 220 square feet room) and allowed for simply running a train from one end of the layout to the other. They all featured point-to-point operations and switching cars at industries along the main line.
Fewer operators
The layout will feature a limited number of engines and cars, with no more than two people operating at a time – which works perfectly for me. My time for the hobby is very limited, and I don’t anticipate hosting complex operating sessions.
The whole idea is to return to the hobby after a 15-year hiatus and enjoy every aspect: trackwork, scenery, building, weathering, and ultimately running trains and switching cars in a prototypical fashion.
