I did some doodling this weekend, keep it simple indeed, I came up with a point-to-point along the walls design that uses return loops for stagging. Curves are quite generous, in the 15-20 foot range, There will be interchange yards at each end connected with the aformentioned return loops, one will represent the SP connection the second with the Santa Fe, Actual trackage will be kept to the bare minium in these yards, no more the 4 tracks per and extend to perhaps 30 feet in length, being a branchline one can also dispose of the elaborate steam servicing facalities and go minium.
The option of connecting these loops remains open, this would provide a continous run feature, but would require some form of duck under or swing gate design, something i'm not interested in at this time.
Aside from the interchanges no further yard trackage in the traditional sense is required. Towns will be divided into switching disctricts, which will require the usual passing siding(s) and house tracks in addition to specific industry trackage, which will also be kept simple. So far i've not exceeded 50 turnouts in my preliminary designs, no doubt number eights and larger. My design does provide a generous run between towns with an emphisis on simple scenery by use of narrow benchwork. Track will be a combination of handlaid turnouts with flex used everywhere else, in S scale code 100 is close to 110lb rail. There is also the case to be made for code 83 in certain applications.
The intent is to build the dominos (aka. switching distircts) and all benchwork from welded steel channels as I am comfortable and familar with this medium, actual material for subroad bed construction remains to be explored.
That sums up where I am currently in the design process, appreciate any and all critiques of my ideas.
Dave