GEC's Layout Progress

[Green_Elite_Cab]

GEC, I wouldn't worry about the Jersey Arrow kit -- it would just be in a closet in my place, so I figure it's doing some good with you. Get to it when you can!

I like several things about your plan, among them that the video you took last year shows it has a good, workable operating scheme. I also like your ability to put the kind of equipment I liked to see when I was riding the NEC back in college (but several generations back) onto a 4x8. Just a few structures and the catenary poles capture the basic atmosphere very, very well. I always appreciate your updates -- keep em coming!!

Alright, that makes me feel a little better. I just finished my application up for my Masters degree program, which means I now have the nights to myself (no more assignments or paper work for now). I've managed to scrape together enough cash that I think I can go ahead and purchase the supplies I need cast the body and floor.

Yes, my layout has improved functionally, and that is something I'm truly happy about. Not to long ago, the layout was fairly dysfunctional. Its not perfect for what I want to run, but it does get the job done. I do feel like I've taken a few steps back structure wise though. In particular, this Highway bridge, and the "American Hardware Supply" building did a fantastic job dividing the layout into quadrants.

This overhead shot is from 5 years ago (2007).



You can see the difference here, where the extra height of the building really obscured the other half of the layout, to the point where the catenary poles on the other side wouldn't necessarily be obvious.





Magic pan bakery, on the other hand, is a little less impressive, but as far as realistically making use of the track, it fits better. I suppose I could always swap the trains back to the "old" way with Protech plastics and American Hardware supply, but I'm not sure how well American Hardware supply fits the modern era, either, since its difficult to spot two 50' boxcars on its loading dock.