One of the ideas I'm toying with for my next layout is to go from 1915 to 2015 and build a modern CSX or NS industrial switching layout in the 15' by 20' range. Something like Lance Mindheim's Downtown Spur or David Barrow's Lubbock designs but perhaps something along the Kanawha river in West Virginia. i really like the simple track plans like what Mindheim has done or that Grime's Iowa Interstate layout. Are there any particular websites besides Mindheim's that document a larger ISL? Alternatively I may go back to 1920 and build a steam ISL based on the Western Maryland in Elkins or the B&O. Any suggestions for layout designs or websites for a bigger ISL?
Usually, switching layouts are build by people who have only limited space available for a layout and therefore have to concentrate on switching operation and not mainline running.
I am afraid you won´t be able to find much more than what you have already mentioned.
Inspired by Lance Mindsheim´s work, I designed this layout for a friend a few years ago:
The design is far from being perfect - it lacks staging acting as the "outside world" and it is a little too cramped for my taste in order to fit in given premises.
Happy times!
Ulrich (aka The Tin Man)
"You´re never too old for a happy childhood!"
NevinAny suggestions for layout designs or websites for a bigger ISL?
I just Googled: HO scale large industrial switching layouts.
Lots to read and in images, lots to look at. Give it a try.
Mike.
My You Tube
That is a neat design idea. I like how you were able to include a continuous run in the design. I may try to incorporate something like that into my design. Sometimes I miss just watching a train go around on my current layout.
When I get to West Virginia I'll do some exploring and see what prototype industrial parks exist in the Charleston- Huntington area. There are lots of chemical factories there so I suspect there are some likely candidates for prototypes to model. It might be neat running a huge modern CSX diesel rather than the small 4-6-0's that I am used to. Might run better too.