2014 Layout Plans

I've been thinking a lot lately about starting a new layout project, and after months of ideas and false starts, I think I am ready to finally jump off the diving board.  I have other interests outside of model railroading, and a break from my intense 3d printing addiction the past couple of months has been nice.  But after being without a place to run trains for about a year now is starting to drive me nuts.  I had a set of track plans and had even built a pair of long tables for a shelf/switching layout, but never really got past the benchwork stage.  I want to build an industrial style layout with lots of buildings and activity, and a place to feature my truck models, but just can't sell myself on a layout without continuous running capabilities.  While watching a train run in circles seems like "playing" with trains to some, I actually enjoy it.  I have a few boxes of new Kato intermodal equipment sitting in the box that I am itching to put on the rail.  And the thought of shoving them in a yard, without the ability to run them continuously just didn't spark any interest.  So after some deep thought, I think I finally landed on a track plan that will work for me.

I guess the 2x8' tables that I built did serve a purpose, as I decided that my next layout will only be 8' in length.  I really like the 4x10 footprint that I have used in the past, but 8' will allow me to shove the layout into a few different spots in my garage, making room for other things.  And this layout isn't about broad curves and scenery, but rather industries and detail.

Using Sketchup, I drew a very quick sketch of a trackplan in a 3.5' x 8' space.  I spent about 30 minutes putting this together, so take it for what it's worth.  I still want to incorporate most of my industry and switching ideas from the shelf layout plan, but add a continuous loop for unit trains.  I drew this with a double mainline, but also want to consider a single main which would give me more room for other things.  This is where I could use some input from others.  

I have a few of the industries planned including a grain elevator, meat packing/cold storage, and an intermodal yard.  I also added 4 hidden staging tracks to allow for ample storage of cars and trains, which will add some interest to operations.

Well, there you have it.  I am pretty serious about this plan, as it seems to fit most of my needs.  And, I just need to start something before the idea gets stale and I lose several more months.  I'll fine tune it over the next few weeks, but this is at least a good starting point of what is in my head at the moment.

Let me know what you think.