What comes first

[ClinchValleySD40]

I'm starting to lay out some towns, most of which will have some industry for switching. Do you put in the tracks with an idea of what you want for industry first and try to kitbash buildings to fit, or do you place the buildings and modify the track to serve them?

[cacole]

You probably need to arrange the buildings first and then see if the track is going to fit. Putting the track in first sometimes makes it impossible to place a buidling where you want to without having to modify the building. Justs put the buildings down loose so you can move them around until they are in a position or arrangement that allows for track to go in, mark the areas around each, take them off, and then put down the track. After the track is laid, put the buildings in permanently. It's very difficult to lay track when buildings are in the way.

[Anonymous]

Good advice. Place buildings where you think you'll need them then lay out the track to see if the buildings will really fir or if they need to be repositioned. Having said that, though, I have started laying out the track first as I knew what I wanted in the track plan, and then I'm fitting some buildings/structures as I go. One point of consideration is how much room do you have to work with? If you're limited on space, plan everything out before you make it permanent. I have almost double the room I had with my last attempt so I can be a little more lenient with buildings and track. Keep us posted on your progress. Dale[:)]

[ClinchValleySD40]

Thanks. I'll mock up some buildings to use and try that. I have no problem modifying or kitbashing buildings, but right now I don't have the time to build all the buildings I'll need. I've got seven towns to do, 18 - 24" wide and from 8 to 14 feet long. Time to start cutting up some foamcore.

[BRAKIE]

I found its easier to place the buildings then lay the track in place to see if it will work.You may have to rearrange the buildings or in some cases the track design.

[mikebonellisr]

Remember it's a little give and take and maybe a lot of adusting.If you plan on running your trains with the least amount of problems, then I would pay close attention to the track work.S curves,turnouts,elevation etc.Plan and adust.Good luck,It sounds like quite a proect.Keep us informed